Conditions and Benefits of Using Artificial Intelligence in Inter-Organizational Networks
Purpose: The main scientific purpose of this article is to identify conditions and benefits of exploiting artificial intelligence tools by organizations collaborating within network. The study focuses on diagnosing how AI technology may contribute to the increase in efficiency of operating from the perspective of both individual member of network and network as a whole. Design/Methodology/Approach: Conceptual development and positioning of the research aim at providing a generalizable contribution to management science, at the same time being accessible to practitioners. The research was carried out using the interpretative method of a case study, following its methodological rigor. Carried out a case research provided data corresponding with set research questions. Additionally, the results were confronted and confirmed within internal documents analysis. Findings: The character of network collaboration generally is not favourable in terms of integrating artificial intelligence tools. It makes it difficult to work out mechanisms of systematic collecting, sharing and analysing information and data, which constitute a fundamental condition of efficient implementation of AI tools. Moreover, it appeared that AI technology contribution in supporting gaining benefits from network collaboration (in case of both analysed perspectives) is limited. Practical Implications: The results allow identifying practical conditions and a scale of taking advantage of AI tools within networks, including two perspectives. These considerations serve as a guideline for managers who perceive AI technology as a vital factor that can support increase in efficiency of inter-organizational network collaboration. Originality/Value: The author adopts a new perspective to the problem of efficient exploitation of AI technology in managing organizations, focusing on the specific conditions of operating within inter-organizational networks. The study expands our understanding of how the main features of networks correspond with the nature of artificial intelligence tools. It presents a concise theoretical construct which explains how network participants can use AI technology in order to support gaining unique rents dedicated to network collaboration.