Strategic infrastructure asset management: a conceptual framework to identify capabilities

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a conceptual framework that can be used to identify capabilities needed in the management of infrastructure assets.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper utilises a qualitative approach to analyse secondary data in order to develop a conceptual framework that identifies capabilities for strategic infrastructure asset management.

Findings

In an external business environment that is undergoing rapid change, it is more appropriate to focus on factors internal to the organisation such as resources and capabilities as a basis to develop competitive advantage. However, there is currently very little understanding of the internal capabilities that are appropriate for infrastructure asset management. Therefore, a conceptual framework is needful to guide infrastructure organisations in the identification of capabilities.

Research limitations/implications

This is a conceptual paper and future empirical research should be conducted to validate the propositions made in the paper.

Practical implications

The paper clearly argues the need for infrastructure organisations to adopt a systematic approach to identifying the capabilities needed in the management of strategic infrastructure assets. The discussion on the impact of essential capabilities is useful in providing the impetus for managers who operate in a deregulated infrastructure business landscape to review their existing strategies.

Originality/value

The paper provides a new perspective on how asset managers can create value for their organisations by investing in the relevant capabilities.

Citation

Too, E. and Too, L. (2010), "Strategic infrastructure asset management: a conceptual framework to identify capabilities", Journal of Corporate Real Estate, Vol. 12 No. 3, pp. 196-208. https://doi.org/10.1108/14630011011074795