An Integrated Framework via the Convergence Phenomenon for the Emergence of Software-as-a-Service

Abstract

Firms from previously distinct industries are increasingly adopting software-as-a-service (SaaS), allowing for the emergence of new markets at the convergence of these industries. The motivation for this research is to explore what is occurring as a result of the convergence phenomenon. The convergence phenomenon is when a technological evolution occurs where previously separate products or services merge into a single offering and cross-industrial collaboration increases as a result. By reviewing literature on the phenomenon in affected industries, such as the telecommunications, television and computer industries, the main aspects are identified and integrated into one framework to analyze the phenomenon as a whole. The inter-relations of the main aspects are explored through the lens of mobilization of institutional theory. The framework's applicability is then explored against a historical case. Future research suggestions are offered to further corroborate the framework to increase its generalizability for analyzing the convergence phenomenon in other relevant industries.