Strategic Positioning of Information Logistics Service Providers: Guidelines for Selecting Appropriate Organizational Models

The development of strategies for information logistics (IL) is currently widely discussed in the literature. Despite all practical needs, there still is a lack of appropriate methodical guidance to the strategy development for IL. Especially the strategic positioning of the IL organization is a fundamental decision which should be taken with care. In this paper, we extend an existing IL strategy components framework, give a detailed characterization of IL service provider types, present guidelines for the identification of the adequate IL service provider type, and evaluate the approach by the application at two companies.The IL strategy framework subdivides an IL strategy into sourcing, making, and delivery parts and an encompassing governance process. In contrast to other frameworks, it also includes the supply-side and the demand-side (customers) of an IL service provider. The IL service provider types IL business service provider, IL competence center, IL full service provider, and IL platform service provider form the basis for the strategic positioning. By using guidelines, the selection of a desirable IL service provider type is supported. The execution of this strategic positioning is demonstrated at a utility and a financial services company. This documents the applicability, feasibility, and usefulness of the approach.