Business Model Architecture by Design.

In this paper we view business models as complex deal-making activity systems organised to create, deliver and capture value. These activities are carried out by a network of actors drawing on a network of resources, and individual firms seek to configure these intersecting networks to enhance their competitive positioning. There is an emphasis on both system components and their interconnection. The business model literature refers to the significance of antecedent activities in providing context – opportunities the firm decides to pursue, the strategy adopted and requisite capabilities. Drawing on this literature we propose an approach to framing business model context. Drawing on the information systems literature we identify a toolkit facilitating activity system architecture design. We suggest how this both draws out the underlying complexity of a business model and shows how a multiplicity of views makes sense. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]