Understanding the Process Management of Product Platform Development for Industrialised Construction Companies: An Ecosystem Orchestrator Perspective

Abstract

The construction industry is increasingly embracing industrialised approaches to improve efficiency and reduce fragmentation. This research explores the development and management of product platforms, focusing on how industrialised construction companies enhance ecosystem collaboration to achieve sustainable business outcomes. The scope of the study includes understanding the process flow of product platform development, managing ecosystem boundaries, and ensuring partner alignment. The aim is to uncover the orchestration mechanisms that companies can use to better align their partners and facilitate collaborative platform development.
The findings reveal that different orchestration mechanisms—standardisation, nurturing, negotiation, and ownership—are emphasised depending on the company’s role within the ecosystem. Keystone companies prioritise standardisation and nurturing, while niche players focus on negotiation and ownership to protect their contributions. Additionally, the study highlights how the companies’ business models, company size, and market targets influence their approach to platform development. Cross-case analysis also revealed that effective management of ecosystem boundaries and regional regulations plays a critical role in product platform success.
In conclusion, industrialised construction companies can enhance ecosystem collaboration in product platform development by strategically balancing orchestration mechanisms and aligning ecosystem partners around shared goals, which are based on the company’s role.