Analyzing the development of 4th generation mobile network in China: actor network theory perspective

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the process of standards setting based on the case of long-term evolution time division duplex (LTE TDD) deployment in China.

Design/methodology/approach

Using actor-network theory (ANT) as a theoretical framework, multi-level analyses are presented to explain the process of adoption of LTE TDD at a global level.

Findings

Findings identified the complex interaction between the social and technical aspects of fourth-generation (4G) by highlighting the co-evolving nature, diversity and interface that constitute the next-generation network environment.

Research limitations/implications

ANT provides a framework of ideas for describing the process of technology adoption and for developing stories that explain it.

Originality/value

The findings shed light on a critical insight of the interrelationships between TD-SCDMA and LTE TDD and identify the policy successes and failures of 4G mobile networks.

Citation

Shim, Y. and Shin, D.-H. (2015), "Analyzing the development of 4th generation mobile network in China: actor network theory perspective", info, Vol. 17 No. 1, pp. 22-38. https://doi.org/10.1108/info-09-2014-0041