Towards building a theory of IT-enabled value-adding partnership: factors contributing to the effectiveness of electronic interface systems

The authors discuss the building of a theory of Information Technology-enabled Value-adding Partnership (IT VAP) in this paper. A value-adding partnership is normally first developed between adjacent members in the value-added chain, creating what is frequently called a dyad. The perspective of IT-enabled value-adding partnership is only very recent. The authors attempt to empirically search for evidence that may explain the mechanisms whereby the IT VAP benefits all participants, sellers and buyers. The focus of this paper is on the development of theory and resting of hypotheses. Six factors which are oriented from a technical perspective, human perspective, economic perspective, and behavioral perspective were identified. This paper discusses how these factors are related. Data were collected from the Property/Casualty Insurance Industry. Six hypotheses were tested to form the basis of the IT VAP theory.<>