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Balancing Firm and Network-based Resources to Gain Competitive Advantage: A Case Study of an Artisanal Musical Instruments Cluster in Germany

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  • Leick, Birgit

Abstract

The question of whether firms gain competitiveness through local networks and clusters becomes more relevant than ever as globalization proceeds. This is particularly true for traditional and craft-based clusters, districts and business networks. A central question emerging for these types of networks is: (How) can they build competitive advantage using local production systems and network ties as core resources? The present article aims at shedding light on this issue by presenting a case study of an artisanal cluster operating in the manufacturing of classical musical instruments. Focusing on a resource-based perspective and using a qualitative research approach, the paper explores the critical resources necessary for generating competitive advantage through local networking. It critically investigates how competitive advantage is gained for the network and which are the drivers of sustaining competitive advantage in a dynamic view.

Suggested Citation

  • Leick, Birgit, 2013. "Balancing Firm and Network-based Resources to Gain Competitive Advantage: A Case Study of an Artisanal Musical Instruments Cluster in Germany," management revue - Socio-Economic Studies, Nomos Verlagsgesellschaft mbH & Co. KG, vol. 24(2), pages 77-95.
  • Handle: RePEc:nms:mamere:1861-9908_mrev_2013_2_leick
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    File URL: https://www.nomos-elibrary.de/10.5771/0935-9915-2013-2-77
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    artisanal clusters; competitive advantage; local versus global linkages; resource-based view;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • L14 - Industrial Organization - - Market Structure, Firm Strategy, and Market Performance - - - Transactional Relationships; Contracts and Reputation
    • L22 - Industrial Organization - - Firm Objectives, Organization, and Behavior - - - Firm Organization and Market Structure
    • L69 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Manufacturing - - - Other
    • O33 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences; Diffusion Processes

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