Abstract

The purpose of this paper is threefold. Firstly, it provides business model researchers with a structured analysis of the research that is required to enable business model theories to be developed. A schema for analyzing existing research and for discerning the research required to move towards business model theory building is proposed. The importance of conceptual research along with deductive and inductive empirical research is emphasized. Secondly, the extant business model literature is analyzed according to the research schema to highlight current gaps in the research and the progress being made towards theorization. Thirdly, opportunities for future research are identified and thematically categorized to encourage progressive cycles of conceptual-deductive-inductive research and ultimately, theorizing. The need for business model theory building, both in relation to the business model concept per se and concerning the relationships between business models and other phenomena, is the basis of this article.

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