Electronic Markets - The International Journal on Networked Business

12/12/2024

We have published a new research paper: "Influencer marketing on Instagram - The optimal disclosure strategy from influencers’ and marketers’ perspectives" by Zofia Saternus, Cristina Mihale-Wilson & Oliver Hinz.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12525-024-00743-x

Abstract
This article explores the impact of different advertising disclosure strategies (i.e., explicit sponsorship disclosure, concealing disclosure, impartiality disclosure, and no disclosure) in influencer marketing on influencer-related outcomes (user engagement, user sentiment, and influencer credibility) and marketer-related outcomes (user attitude towards the brand and users’ intention to purchase). We conducted two field experiments and an online survey with an experimental design in collaboration with an active micro-influencer on Instagram. The results of the studies indicate that from a marketers’ perspective, it is best when influencers promote products as genuine recommendations and use impartiality disclosure. From an influencer’s perspective, the optimal disclosure strategy depends on whether the influencer seeks to improve engagement with their content or their levels of credibility. When influencers’ primary focus is to increase engagement, if they provide information on sponsorship or non-sponsorship, they do not have to worry about decreasing engagement rates due to the employed disclosure strategy. Suppose influencers’ goal is to increase their credibility. In that case, it depends on their content (whether it is rich in genuine recommendations or sponsored content) and the group they want to target - i.e., if they seek to target followers versus non-followers.

This article explores the impact of different advertising disclosure strategies (i.e., explicit sponsorship disclosure, concealing disclosure, impartiality disclosure, and no disclosure) in influencer marketing on influencer-related outcomes (user engagement, user sentiment, and influencer credibili...

28/11/2024

We have published new research: "Still doing it yourself? Investigating determinants for the adoption of intelligent process automation" by Alexander Mayr, Philip Stahmann, Maximilian Nebel & Christian Janiesch.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12525-024-00737-9

Abstract
Intelligent process automation (IPA) augments symbolic process automation using artificial intelligence. Emulating human decision-making, IPA enables the ex*****on of complex processes requiring decision-making capacities. IPA promises great economic potential as it enables more efficient use of the human workforce. However, the adoption rate in practice falls behind these potentials. Our study aims to investigate reasons and identify areas for action towards IPA adoption. To this end, we identified 13 determinants and created an extended UTAUT model. We tested the model with partial least squares structural equation modeling for significant influential relationships between the determinants based on a user study. We contribute to theory and practice finding a special role of trust and transparency for the adoption of IPA. Likewise, we show that organizations should cultivate a positive attitude towards IPA diffusion. Further, our results contribute with a focus on the potential adopters as IPA adoption is contingent upon their characteristics, such as experience and job level.

Intelligent process automation (IPA) augments symbolic process automation using artificial intelligence. Emulating human decision-making, IPA enables the ex*****on of complex processes requiring decision-making capacities. IPA promises great economic potential as it enables more efficient use of the...

25/11/2024

We have published an Invited Paper: "E-commerce ecosystems as catalysts for sustainability: A multi-case analysis" by Tobias Wulfert, Robert Woroch, Gero Strobel, Thorsten Schoormann & Leonardo Banh, from Universität Duisburg-Essen, Technische Universität Braunschweig & Fraunhofer ISST.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12525-024-00733-z

Abstract
Single organizations encounter intricate challenges in meeting the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on their own and thus are increasingly concerned with forming ecosystems. This is also the case in the e-commerce domain. It is assumed that particularly focal actors of such ecosystems have the power to foster initiatives towards more sustainability. We conducted an embedded multi-case study with 135 initiatives collected from three types of e-commerce ecosystems to uncover what sustainability goals are addressed by different ecosystem participants. This paper’s analysis explores (1) what sustainability initiatives are reported from focal actors and differences depending on a specific type of ecosystem, (2) dependencies between SDGs within the initiatives, and (3) the degree of involvement of other ecosystem actors and how they contribute to certain SDGs. Our work synthesizes existing initiatives towards sustainable development to give orientation and impulses for practice and academia as well as outlines avenues for future research at the intersection of ecosystems and sustainability.

-Commerce

22/11/2024

We have published a new research paper: "E-commerce transformation: A literature review from an institutional and organizational perspective" by Etienne Thenoz, Solène Juteau & Frantz Rowe.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12525-024-00740-0

Abstract
This literature review is the first to summarize past research on e-commerce transformations and outline a research agenda to understand them. By bringing together concepts from institutional and organizational transformation theories, we develop a conceptual framework to analyze e-commerce transformations and their dynamics. We review 91 papers on e-commerce transformations published between 1995 and 2023 and assess them with our a priori framework to identify six underexamined areas. We then develop a corresponding research agenda and delineate two research thrusts to further our understanding of present and future e-commerce transformations. Our first research thrust calls for analyses of ecosystem-level pressures, regulatory frameworks, and the influence of new intermediaries on e-commerce transformations. Our second thrust proposes to investigate mechanisms that spread or impede forces of change within the organization.

20/11/2024

We have published new research: "Recommending AI based on Quantified Self: Investigating the mechanism of consumer acceptance of AI recommendations" by Aoxue Li, Zhengping Ding, Chunhua Sun & Yezheng Liu.

Abstract
Rapid advancement and widespread use of Quantified Self technology have contributed to the development of artificial intelligence (AI) recommendations. This study is aimed at exploring how users’ perception of the technology affordance of Quantified Self is associated with their intention to accept AI-recommended products. We distinguish four key technology affordances (information richness, personalization, visibility, and metavoicing) of the Quantified Self platform on affordance theory and explore their impact on consumer responses. A one-group design experiment with a pretest was conducted, and 360 participants were recruited to participate in the experiment and fill in the questionnaires. Finally, 344 valid questionnaires were obtained. The findings indicate the following: (1) information richness, personalization, visibility, and metavoicing positively impact purchase intention through trust and behavioral control. (2) Appearance concern positively moderated the relationships between metavoicing and trust and between metavoicing and behavioral control and negatively moderated the relationships between information richness and behavioral control and between personalization and behavioral control. Hence, this study has theoretical significance and practical implications for enriching the knowledge on how to introduce Quantified Self to improve the conversion rate of AI recommendations.

11/11/2024

The new collection of free access papers is now available until December 31, 2024.

These five featured papers are free access for two months and focus on blockchain-based fan tokens, centralized and decentralized exchanges, mobile health applications, online health consultations and feedback mechanism.

You can find them here: https://link.springer.com/journal/12525/updates/23971536

We hope you enjoy reading them!

31/10/2024

We have published a new research article: "The impacts of platform owner entry on prospective complementors’ intention to join: Discouraged by deterrent or attracted by good reputation" by Zhengwei Li, Yadan Zheng & Xin Zhao, School of Management, Zhejiang University of Technology, China.

Abstract
In the context of e-commerce, platform owner entry into complementary markets has become a prevalent strategy. However, the impact of this strategy on prospective complementors’ intention to join remains unclear. To address the research gap, this study constructs a research model based on signal theory and transaction cost theory. By analyzing primary data on Jingdong, a prominent e-commerce platform in China, the results suggest that the platform owner entry heightens competition intensity within the platform, thereby sending “threat signals” to prospective complementors. Besides, platform owner entry also enhances the social identity of the platform, thereby sending “opportunity signals”. Furthermore, these signals are evaluated by prospective complementors to form expected transaction costs that influence their intention to join. The results also indicate that the reputation of prospective complementors and market uncertainty, to varying degrees, modify the outcomes of the joining intention. This study contributes to the literature on platform owner entry by extending the theoretical perspective and deepening the understanding of its influential mechanisms. Additionally, this study provides valuable practical insights for both platform owners and complementors.

In the context of e-commerce, platform owner entry into complementary markets has become a prevalent strategy. However, the impact of this strategy on prospective complementors’ intention to join remains unclear. To address the research gap, this study constructs a research model based on signal t...

28/10/2024

We have published new research: "Providing organizations with a validated instrument for an Enterprise Service Management capability" by Daria Goscinska & Till Winkler, Chair of Information Management, University of Hagen & Copenhagen Business School.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12525-024-00735-x

Abstract
In light of new digital opportunities, enterprises require modernization also with regard to intra-organizational business and IT management. Enterprise Service Management (ESM) is an organizational capability aimed at a more efficient and effective IT and business service management in organizations. Although ESM has been recognized as an approach to improve customer and employee satisfaction and to create digital competitive advantage, there is a methodological and analytical void for organizations in how to measure their ESM capability. Motivated by this lack of measurability and tangibility, we aim to empirically validate the ESM capability model. Our contribution to this paper is empirical, as we provide a measurable instrument for further ESM studies. We aim to initiate a broader debate on ESM and thereby add to the scholarly establishment of the concept in the Information Systems and IT Management literature. Practically, we contribute by offering companies a validated and actionable set of ESM characteristics.

In light of new digital opportunities, enterprises require modernization also with regard to intra-organizational business and IT management. Enterprise Service Management (ESM) is an organizational capability aimed at a more efficient and effective IT and business service management in organization...

24/10/2024

We are pleased to announce the publication of the preface introducing our Special Isssue on "Data economy in a globalized world, opportunities and challenges for public and private organizations" by Mark de Reuver, Hosea A. Ofe, Mila Gasco-Hernandez, Boriana Rukanova & J. Ramon Gil-Garcia.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12525-024-00736-w

The authors explore the challenges and opportunities of data sharing in a globalized economy where data is increasingly distributed and controlled by different actors. They argue that effective data management structures are essential to realize the potential of data for innovation and solving complex problems.

Access to all articles in the special issue is here: https://link.springer.com/collections/ihedfhbigd

21/10/2024

We have published the preface to our topical collection on "AI-enabled information systems, Teaming up with intelligent agents in networked business", authored by Peter Hofmann, Nils Urbach, Julia Lanzl & Kevin Desouza.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12525-024-00734-y

The authors explore key issues using the ecological work systems framework and share insights on future research directions. Drawing on real-world experience and practitioner feedback, they highlight five key challenges for AI transformation. The article also provides an overview of the accepted papers in this topical collection. Dive in for a comprehensive look at the future of AI in information systems.

Please find the papers of the topical collection on "Special Issue on "AI-enabled information systems, Teaming up with intelligent agents in networked business" here: https://lnkd.in/dTvpbxkr

09/10/2024

have published an invited paper: "Modeling inter-organizational business process governance in the age of collaborative networks" by Vítor Ribeiro, João Barata & Paulo Rupino da Cunha, Centre for Informatics and Systems of the University of Coimbra.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12525-024-00730-2

Abstract
Collaborative networks require inter-organizational business process governance (IO-BPG) mechanisms to define ownership over shared resources and activities, accountability over operations, inter-organizational roles and responsibilities, and strategic partner alignment. We developed an IO-BPG modeling approach aiming to incorporate (1) IT governance activities (e.g., IT performance measurement), (2) data governance activities (e.g., data strategy management), and (3) “shadow” parallel governance-related operations. Resulting from a design science research project, our contributions include the building blocks (domain attributes, ontology, and requirements) of a novel BPMN extension, its demonstration in logistics operations, its evaluation, and design principles to guide IO-BPG modeling. Suggestions for the development and evaluation of future BPMN extensions are also highlighted based on the lessons learned in this project. For practitioners, our contribution can improve accountability reports over data assets and operations, identify dataset ownership, assist in the coordination of governance activities in networked businesses, and comply with regulations and strategic partnership agreements.

07/10/2024

We have published a new research paper: "Wallet wars or digital public infrastructure? Orchestrating a digital identity data ecosystem from a government perspective" by Konrad Degen & Timm Teubner, German Federal Agency for Disruptive Innovation (SPRIND) & Einstein Center Digital Future (ECDF).
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12525-024-00731-1

Abstract
With the eIDAS 2.0 legislation, the European Union seeks to establish a digital identity data ecosystem and to empower citizens to manage digital credentials from various sources through an ID wallet interface. To achieve this, governments must develop holistic orchestration models integrating technical, regulatory, and economic perspectives. This approach will foster ecosystem value creation, address orchestration tensions, and design sustainable operating models for various ecosystem actors. While IS research has explored private-sector governance mechanisms in platform and data ecosystems, a research gap exists in understanding public–private orchestration where governments act as orchestrators. We address this through a structured document analysis of 80 position papers from various stakeholders participating in a public government consultation process and 14 semi-structured in-depth interviews. By examining ecosystem value creation mechanisms, orchestration tensions, and monetization challenges, we identify two government orchestration standard types for the ID wallet provision. The Government ID-Infrastructure Wallet model embodies an ecosystem-integrated public infrastructure, while the Trust ID Wallet Federation exemplifies a dynamic and competition-driven approach. By bridging the self-sovereign identity ecosystem paradigm with digital identity infrastructure research, our work contributes to the understanding and theoretical development of data ecosystems and digital identity research from a government perspective.

With the eIDAS 2.0 legislation, the European Union seeks to establish a digital identity data ecosystem and to empower citizens to manage digital credentials from various sources through an ID wallet interface. To achieve this, governments must develop holistic orchestration models integrating techn...

04/10/2024

We have published a new research paper: "Stuck in the middle with you: Conceptualizing data intermediaries and data intermediation services" by Julia Schweihoff, Anzelika Lipovetskaja, Ilka Jussen-Lengersdorf & Frederik Möller, from TU Dortmund, Technische Universität Braunschweig & Fraunhofer ISST.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12525-024-00729-9

Abstract
Data intermediation services are a novel class of services mitigating various aspects of inter-organizational data sharing. Facilitating data intermediation services is a pivotal activity that leverages the benefits of the data economy. These services are usually provided by so-called data intermediaries, who organize data sharing between one or multiple data provider(s) and data consumer(s). Against the background of prominent legislation, these data intermediaries (e.g., data marketplaces or data trusts) receive increasing attention in research, practice, and politics. For instance, the Data Governance Act regulates data intermediation services, prompting organizations sharing data to comply with various regulations, including registration with government bodies or acquiring a trusted label. However, to date, little research has been done about the nature of data intermediation services, motivating us to tackle this issue in a two-fold strategy. First, we derive a visualization of a data intermediary and concept subsuming its potential functions. Second, we explore archetypical configurations of co-existing services of data intermediaries. With this, we contribute to understanding the data intermediaries as a concept and enrich this understanding with more detailed service configurations.

03/10/2024

We have published a new research paper: "Data sharing practices: The interplay of data, organizational structures, and network dynamics" by Marcel Fassnacht, Jannis Leimstoll, Carina Benz, Daniel Heinz & Gerhard Satzger, Karlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12525-024-00732-0

Abstract
With the proliferation of data and advanced analytics, organizations are increasingly recognizing the potential value of sharing data across organizational boundaries. However, there is a lack of empirical evidence and systematic frameworks to guide the design of effective data sharing practices. Realizing the full potential of data sharing requires the effective design and implementation of data sharing practices by considering the interplay of data, organizational structures, and network dynamics. This study presents an empirically and theoretically grounded taxonomy of data sharing practices drawing on existing literature and real-world data sharing cases. The subsequent cluster analysis identifies four generic archetypes of data sharing practices, differing in their primary orientation toward compliance, efficiency, revenue, or society. From a theoretical perspective, our work conceptualizes data sharing practices as a foundation for a more systematic and detailed exploration in future research. At the practitioner level, we enable organizations to strategically develop and scale data sharing practices to effectively leverage data as a strategic asset.

20/09/2024

We have published a new position paper: "Digital Business as a Field for Research and Education" by Thomas Hess, René Riedl & Luc Becker, from Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria & JKU - Johannes Kepler Universität Linz.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12525-024-00726-y

Digital technologies are sparking new business opportunities and pushing established companies to rethink and restructure their business models. While multiple academic research streams have explored the potential of digital technologies for business, the findings are scattered across different outlets and communities. What’s missing is a unified approach to bring these valuable insights together.
In our latest position paper, the authors propose a comprehensive integration of these research streams under the concept of Digital Business, with Digital Innovations at its core. They present a framework that:
- structures the field of Digital Business,
- tracks its development, and
- offers three key ideas for further integration of the field.

The authors aim to create a solid conceptual foundation to guide research and education in Digital Business.

11/09/2024

We have published a new research paper: "Certified data chats for future used car markets" by Andreas Engelmann & Gerhard Schwabe, Universität Zürich.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12525-024-00725-z

Abstract
Used car market platforms are interested in extending their offering from information provision to the whole customer journey. Providing certified data on the car’s state and history enables this extension by eliminating the need to physically inspect the car before buying it. Hence, communication and negotiations can move entirely to a used car platform to cover the entire value chain. How can such a market communication be designed when certified data come into play? This study designs and develops a certified data chat for the selective and controlled exchange of blockchain-based certified data in used car negotiations. An experimental market game is played with students to evaluate the usefulness of the chat. The study contributes to the augmentation of market communication with valuable and sensitive data exchange and demonstrates what a key component of a future used car market can look like. It offers three design principles and insight into why certified data chats are useful.

Used car market platforms are interested in extending their offering from information provision to the whole customer journey. Providing certified data on the car’s state and history enables this extension by eliminating the need to physically inspect the car before buying it. Hence, communication...

11/09/2024

If you are working in the area of regulation in digital markets and platforms, do consider participating in a paper development workshop at Dresden University of Technology in Germany.

The workshop is associated with the special issue on "Regulatory competition and global governance in digital markets" in Electronic Markets (https://www.electronicmarkets.org/call-for-papers/single-view-for-cfp/datum/2024/05/27/cfp-special-issue-on-regulatory-competition-and-global-governance-in-digital-markets/) and the participants will have the possibility to discuss their research on this timely topic and receive guidance for their submission to the special issue.

Authors are invited to submit their papers until October 31, 2024 and the workshop will take place on January 31, 2025, in Dresden.

Many thanks go to the organizers, who provide more information here: https://tu-dresden.de/bu/wirtschaft/bwl/finance/events/PDW_Electronic_Markets.

TUD is organizing a Paper Development Workshop. We invite scholars to apply to present and discuss their current research on regulatory competition and global governance in digital markets.

10/09/2024

We have published new research: "How online exposure to nature affects customer engagement: Evidence from Sina Weibo" by Jiaqi Wang, Peng Zou & Bo Yu, Harbin Institute of Technology, China
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12525-024-00728-w

Abstract
The increasing popularity of online information and communication technology (ICT) devices has shifted customers’ contact with nature from offline to online. Online exposure to nature on social media involves information such as bloggers’ social influence, blog image clarity, blog text sentiment, blog length, and online interactions with people, which are inaccessible from offline. This study examines the relationship between online exposure to nature and social media engagement behaviors from the perspective of environmental psychology. We find a significant U-shaped correlation between online exposure to nature and customer engagement on social media. Moreover, this relationship is weakened by social influence and image clarity. Our analysis indicates that online exposure to nature significantly differs from exposure to nature, both theoretically and in terms of results. Our paper enriches the literature on visual content and enhances the understanding of customer engagement on social media. The results also reveal the implementation of social media marketing strategies with images.