Relational structure in the global automotive industry: groups, networks and fields

Abstract Purpose: The purpose of this study was to analyze the network structure of automotive companies linked by cross-shareholding, joint ventures, manufacturing contracts and alliances, from 2004 to 2012. The study also explored how the network structure affects the competition in the field. Design/methodology/approach: The sample involved 3695 dyads. Based on this data, it was possible to build and assess networks using Gephi and UCINET software. The study considered network analysis metrics such as centrality, group and network densities temporally. Thus, associated with a contextual and longitudinal analysis, the construction of sociograms allowed visualization of the interactional structure and the automakers’ position in the field. Findings: Results showed that the internationalization and growth of automakers and suppliers are made possible through these relationships among companies (cross-shareholding, joint ventures, manufacturing contracts and alliances). Connections may generate greater power, access to resources and market opportunities. It also enhanced the elaboration of inferences about how these resources influence the competition in the field. Originality/value: The increasing importance of this relational resource shapes the industry competitive structure, which is composed of cooperative and competitive relationships found in meso-level orders.摘要 研究目的：本研究旨在分析2004至2012年间，以交叉持股、合资企业、制造合同及联盟关系联结的汽车企业网络结构，并探究该网络结构如何影响该领域的市场竞争。设计/研究方法/途径：本研究样本涵盖3695组二元组（dyads）。基于该数据，可借助Gephi与UCINET两款软件构建并评估企业网络。研究从时间维度考量了中心性、群体密度与网络密度等网络分析指标。结合语境化纵向分析，社会网络图的构建可实现对互动结构及汽车制造商在该领域内的地位的可视化呈现。研究结果：结果表明，汽车制造商与供应商的国际化及成长可通过企业间的上述关系（交叉持股、合资、制造合同与联盟）得以实现。企业间的联结可赋予企业更强的市场话语权、资源获取渠道与市场机遇。本研究还进一步深化了关于此类资源如何影响该领域市场竞争的推论阐释。创新性/价值：这类关系型资源的重要性日益提升，重塑了该行业的竞争结构，该结构由中观层面的合作与竞争关系共同构成。