Modularity in Organizational Structure: The Reconfiguration of Internally Developed and Acquired Business Units

Karim, Samina (2006). "Modularity in organizational structure: The reconfiguration of internally developed and acquired business units." Strategic Management Journal 27(9): 799-823. (Lead article)

48 Pages Posted: 8 Nov 2014 Last revised: 27 Aug 2021

Date Written: 2006

Abstract

This paper explores changes in organizational structure and distinguishes between units’ origins. Unit reconfiguration is the addition of units to, deletion of units from, and recombination of units within the firm. This study compares the reconfiguration of internally developed vs. acquired units, explores what forms of unit recombination are common, and observes whether firms pursue recombination before divestiture. Theoretical support is drawn from the dynamic capabilities perspective, research on modular organizational systems, and strategy–structure literature. The findings are that acquired and internally developed units serve different roles in the process of change, and that firms perceive reconfiguration to be beneficial.

Keywords: reconfiguration, recombination, restructure, organizational structure, modularity, dynamic capabilities, mergers and acquisitions

Suggested Citation

Karim, Samina, Modularity in Organizational Structure: The Reconfiguration of Internally Developed and Acquired Business Units (2006). Karim, Samina (2006). "Modularity in organizational structure: The reconfiguration of internally developed and acquired business units." Strategic Management Journal 27(9): 799-823. (Lead article), Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2520456

Samina Karim (Contact Author)

Northeastern University ( email )

Boston, MA 02115
United States

HOME PAGE: http://www.damore-mckim.northeastern.edu/faculty/k/karim-samina/

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