Abstract
In this paper, we highlight the pervasive influence of information technologies on multinational enterprise (MNE) operations, strategies and structures. The democratization of information technologies has diminished geographic distance and compressed response times for MNEs. In turn, this has led to an increased and simultaneous emphasis on both global efficiencies and local responsiveness. We explore the consequences of this change in emphasis for MNE strategic and structural orientations as established by Bartlett and Ghoshal's typology of MNE strategies. Our conclusion is that the distinctions between the four strategic orientations are becoming increasingly blurred and MNE structures are becoming more organic in nature. In addition to discussing these changes, we also highlight emerging challenges that MNEs face in an increasingly borderless, time compressed world.
Original language | English (US) |
---|---|
Pages (from-to) | 143-161 |
Number of pages | 19 |
Journal | Journal of International Management |
Volume | 11 |
Issue number | 2 SPEC. ISS. |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jun 2005 |
All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes
- Business and International Management
- Finance
- Strategy and Management
Keywords
- Global efficiency
- Global strategy and structures
- Information technology
- Local responsiveness
- Multinational enterprise