Authors: Chris Medlin
Interaction is central to a relationship and network framework, yet the concept is quiteamorphous. One reason for imprecision is the lack of theory with regard to the wayinteraction works in time. Clarification of this nexus further develops the interactionconcept and provides theoretical support for the dynamic view of business relationshipsand networks being developed by the IMP Group.The role of time as a background for interaction is elaborated, in conjunction with thecognitive ability of humans, to arrive at explanations of inter-firm interaction. Thiselaboration of time extends the concept of horizontal relationship time (ie past present,future). In addition, the constraints upon inter-firm interaction are elaborated and theimportance of the human actor is highlighted, within resource and activity networksspread through time. Furthermore, elaboration of time provides clear distinctionsbetween interactions as exchange versus adaptation and offers theoretical groundssupporting a relationship and network perspective for business markets, whiledismissing business relationship life cycle theories.
Journal: ( – )
Web Address:
Publish Year: 2002
Conference: Perth, Australia (2002)