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The sociality of resources: Understanding organizational competitive advantage from a social perspective

Author

Listed:
  • Lin Zhang

    (Xi’an Jiaotong University
    Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University)

  • Xiaojun Zhang

    (Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University)

  • Youmin Xi

    (Xi’an Jiaotong University
    Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University)

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of social structures on the meaning and value of resources. Although understanding resources from a sociological perspective is equally important for the competitive advantage of organizations, prior studies on what a resource is and how a resource becomes valuable have been conducted within an economic perspective. This study examines the meaning and value of resources within a social structure in order to extend the boundary conditions of existing research on resources. Based on a two-step content analysis of the meaning and value of resources in Chinese universities, this study identifies three types of social-oriented resources (resources that help organizations achieve social goals). These contrast with economic-oriented resources (resources that help organizations achieve economic goals) in markets. We also find three strategies that create the value of social-oriented resources. The findings regarding the meaning and value of social-oriented resources uncover the sociality of resources that complement the economic perspective and highlight the importance of understanding organizational competitive advantage from a sociological perspective.

Suggested Citation

  • Lin Zhang & Xiaojun Zhang & Youmin Xi, 2017. "The sociality of resources: Understanding organizational competitive advantage from a social perspective," Asia Pacific Journal of Management, Springer, vol. 34(3), pages 619-648, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:asiapa:v:34:y:2017:i:3:d:10.1007_s10490-016-9490-z
    DOI: 10.1007/s10490-016-9490-z
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    References listed on IDEAS

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