Defining Value in Sustainable Business Models

Research output: Journal contributionsConference abstract in journalResearchpeer-review

Authors

The aim to deliver multiple forms of value to a variety of stakeholders distinguishes sustainable business models (SBMs) from other types of business models. However, despite being central to defining SBMs, value itself is seldom defined. We argue that explicit definitions of value are necessary in each SBM research context, to advance theorizing and methodological rigour. Our findings from a four-stage study offer guidance for developing good definitions of value in SBMs. Firstly, our systematic literature review reveals that value is used in many different contexts with different implicit meanings, in a black-box approach that defines SBMs without defining value. Secondly, drawing on philosophical methodology literature, we identify criteria for valid and operational definitions. Thirdly, we apply these criteria to identify prevalent issues within existing attempts at defining value in SBM – including circularity, ambiguity, and vagueness. Based on our conclusion that the value concept may be a ‘real vague’ which can never be precisely or completely defined, we emphasize the need for SBM researchers to explicitly define value in each research context. Finally, we provide an analytical framework to guide the development of good definitions of value in SBMs, and suggestions for further research into SBM theorizing methodology.
Original languageEnglish
JournalAcademy of Management Proceedings
Volume2021
Issue number1
Number of pages1
ISSN0065-0668
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 01.08.2021
Externally publishedYes
Event81st Annual Meeting of the Academy of Management: Bringing the Manager back in Management 2021 -
Duration: 29.07.202104.08.2021
Conference number: 81
https://aom.org/events/annual-meeting

Recently viewed

Researchers

  1. Patrick Velte

Publications

  1. C 615 Integrierte Berichterstattung
  2. From Volatile Maintenance Data Forecasting to Reliable Capacity Planning
  3. To separate or not to separate: what is necessary and enough for a green and sustainable extraction of bioactive compounds from Brazilian citrus waste
  4. Video Game Microtransactions & Loot Boxes - An Empirical Study on the Effectiveness of Social Responsibility Measures
  5. Exploring the Capacity of Water Framework Directive Indices to Assess Ecosystem Services in Fluvial and Riparian Systems
  6. Understanding Cross-Country Differences in Exporter Premia
  7. Rechtschreiben unterrichten
  8. How mindfulness training cultivates introspection and competence development for sustainable consumption
  9. Infinite Mixtures of Markov Chains
  10. endo-Hydroxy-trioxa-tris-σ-homotropilidene
  11. Introduction: Toward a business administration for the 21st century
  12. Handbook of Philosophy of Management
  13. Parameters identification in a permanent magnet three-phase synchronous motor for velocity planning to optimize traction losses in a City-Bus
  14. Toward a Kaleidoscopic Understanding of Anonymity
  15. Demographic Transition in Rural Areas: The Relationship between Public Services and Tourism Development
  16. Die coatings influence evaluation and friction model selection in aluminium extrusion by means of visioplasticity technique
  17. Scenario modeling of ammonia emissions from surface applied urea under temperate conditions
  18. Developing Digitalization Strategies for SMEs
  19. Mit Pixel und Korn
  20. Introduction: Perspectives on Democracy
  21. Inflation Narratives from a Machine Learning Perspective
  22. Can management-sponsored non-binding remuneration votes shape the executive compensation structure?
  23. Buchstaben-Salat oder Warum Generationen nicht fertig abgepackt durch die Zeit wandern

Press / Media

  1. Worlding Theory Remix