Linkages between servitization strategies and sourcing decisions: a preliminary study

This paper explores the linkages between servitization strategies and sourcing decisions. Building on previous research, we assume that the manufacturer’s servitization strategy and, as a result, the products and product-services that it should offer are influenced by two main drivers: the customer’s perception about the product’s complexity and the customer’s perception about the product’s criticality. In addition, we argue that the provision of product-services often requires manufacturers to take sourcing decisions. Hence, we propose a framework that links the typology of relationship that a manufacturer should establish with its providers with the aforesaid drivers. Finally, we discuss the practical applications of the framework by means of four case studies.