Digitalization-based Business Model Innovation: Insights from a Multiple-case Study

Digitalization has become the buzzword of the 21st century. Although the development of new information and communication technologies provides opportunities for establishing innovative ways to create, deliver, and capture value, insights into detailed digitalization influences are limited. Establishing digitalization-based solutions is not an easy challenge for firms as they need to overcome a business logic that is based on an analog way of thinking and to establish a new strategic perspective that is reflected in a redefined business model. Against the background of an inductive multiple-case study approach that includes data from 16 case firms, this study develops a classification scheme and uncovers basic types of digitalization-based business models of manufacturing firms. The findings considerably enhance business model (innovation) literature and contribute to a deeper understanding of digitalization consequences on firm level.