IoT as value co-creation enabler in B2B. A resource integration approach

The IoT as value co-creation enabler in B2B. A resource integration approach Abstract Objectives. The paper aims to analyze the role of the IoT as enabler of value co-creation within a B2B context. Methodology. The research unfolded considering a single case study, as this approach was considered useful in gaining in-depth, holistic understanding of the phenomenon studied. Findings. The results show how in coherence with Lusch and Numbisan’s (2015)framework it is possible to argue that in B2B context the IoT is an enabler for creating a supportive environment for resource integration in the service ecosystem. In the case of the company under investigation, the IoT is seen as a way to implement protocols for exchange of services and to enable effective service innovation by devising a modular architecture that enhances resource density. Research limits. The main limitation of the study relates to its explorative nature and the focus on a single case study. Practical implications. The Industrial IoT offers opportunities for the development of new competitive business. The paper shows that the development of the IoT support firms in managing business relationships in new ways that they can drive increased levels of productivity and business impact. Originality of the study. This paper witnesses that, in a B2B context, the IoT may support value co-creation In particular, through the analysis of the Predix GE case study, we conjecture that the IoT is an infrastructure that may enable and empower the three additional areas of support to value co-creation: i) facilitating interactions among actors; ii) internal processes and iii) adapting transparency of activities. Key words: IoT; resource integration; ecosystem, B2B, service innovation