Discussion – Findings from Cross-Case Analysis and Beyond

Abstract

We find initial support for most of our propositions. However, we need to adapt those propositions that assume a relationship between network embeddedness and technocratic coordination. Based on our empirical results, there is no support for the proposition that assumes a positive relationship between strategic relevance and autonomy. With regard to specific coordination mechanisms, we find that autonomy generally does not seem to play a very important role. Transfers are hardly used, most likely because of their high cost, which is especially relevant in cost-sensitive service offshoring situations. Personal coordination is found not only to play an important role for coordination itself but also to be a complement to other mechanisms. Despite minor adaptations, we consider our typology initially supported by our findings.