Assessing the value of mediators in collaborative business networks

Abstract

One of the basic mechanisms of collaborative business networks is mediation. A literature review is presented that identifies meanings and roles of mediators. Based on the literature a framework is developed that can be used to describe and distinguish different types of mediator services. Core concepts of the framework are the value activities that mediators offer and the functional level of these activities with regard to market transactions. The framework uses the e3-value modelling approach to illustrate the value-creating mediator activities in a business network.