Informal governance in the digital transformation
研究数字化供应链中非正式治理机制的使用情况，发现数字化减少了个人接触，降低了非正式协调能力，但在应对中断或建立新关系时仍需非正式治理。
Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore if and how informal governance mechanisms are used for coordinating actors of digitalized supply networks. Design/methodology/approach A multiple case study analysis of ten German firms in digitalized supply networks is conducted. Data are collected through semi-structured expert interviews with interviewees having notable years of professional experience in purchasing or sales. Findings This research shows that reduced personal contacts in digitalized supply networks decrease the ability to coordinate with informal governance mechanisms. However, the need for informal governance in digitalized supply networks remains when facing supply network disruptions or building new business relationships. Originality/value This is the first study examining the role of informal governance mechanisms in digitalized supply networks. Theoretical and practical insights on the changing abilities and needs to use informal governance after the digital transformation are given.