B2B e‐marketplaces: a typology by functionality
International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management
ISSN: 0960-0035
Article publication date: 6 February 2007
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this article is to develop a typology of e‐marketplace functionality and then link the typology to the associated value creation potential of differing types of e‐marketplaces.
Design/methodology/approach
In‐depth interviews with the executives of 50 e‐marketplaces, a web/mail‐based survey of another 350 e‐marketplaces and interviews with several e‐marketplace customers were conducted.
Findings
B2B e‐marketplaces offer a variety of different value propositions. Leading e‐marketplaces have a well‐developed strategy for reaching a particular segment of the buying community, based on service needs. Developing e‐marketplaces do not demonstrate the same focus. On one hand, only a few e‐marketplaces had developed the same winning constellations of services, while on the other hand, most were planning a roll‐out of a wide variety of services that would carry them far beyond a focused strategy. The success of this approach seems problematic.
Practical implications
The prudent customer of an e‐marketplace should weigh their requirements against the functionality found across the broad set of e‐marketplaces as well as against the constellations of functionality (and value creation potential) developed in this research. Only after a careful assessment of needs, can companies make rational decisions about how to effectively use e‐marketplaces.
Originality/value
This research employs a strong research method to create a unique typology of e‐marketplace functionality. This research also links the typology of e‐marketplace functionality to its value creating potential.
Keywords
Citation
Petersen, K.J., Ogden, J.A. and Carter, P.L. (2007), "B2B e‐marketplaces: a typology by functionality", International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, Vol. 37 No. 1, pp. 4-18. https://doi.org/10.1108/09600030710723291
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2007, Emerald Group Publishing Limited