Towards a synchronous Delphi method for group decision support: structuring an integrative framework of internal co-opetition and its implications for managerial frameworks and guidelines

In an era of increased competitiveness, the structure of organisations is drastically changing and their stakeholders need to forge new types of interaction with other actors. Despite performance imperatives required to adapt to fast-changing environments, studies exploring intra-organisational perspectives of co-opetition have remained scarce. In response to these challenges, this exploratory study leverages the Delphi method to examine the complex relationship between dimensions found in empirical research as related to the operationalisation of cooperation and competition. We have introduced and applied a synchronous Delphi method that builds upon assessments from domain experts and provides feedback in real-time on their interactions for decision convergence. The results present the most relevant factors underpinning co-opetitive interactions, resulting into an integrative framework for researching, practising and analysing co-opetitive dynamics within firms. The findings present implications for managerial frameworks and contribute to empirically nuance co-opetition practices within organisations.