Coopetition among telecommunication firms in Blekinge : An Application of Social Network Analysis

Abstract: Background: Business relationships and networks are becoming increasingly complicated and multi-layered. Thus, understanding the structure of the network in question becomes pertinent as it can have a strong impact on competition and collaboration. In these networks, one can observe coopetition, or simultaneous cooperation and competition. Objectives: This master’s thesis explores the phenomenon of coopetition within the telecommunication sector in the county of Blekinge, Sweden. It aims to identify their network structure and the differences among the levels of the network. Methodology: An explorative study is carried out by employing a mixed methods approach, incorporating quantitative data collection and analysis methods, and qualitative discussion and interpretation. In this network analysis of a case study on the telecommunication network, different levels of the cooperation network are compared and then integrated into one and mapped out using Social Network Analysis (SNA). Results: According to the findings we can assume coopetition to be present within the telecommunications firms in Blekinge, revealing a fragmented and decentralized cooperative network structure with a few central nodes. The network contained five distinct cliques and presented an intermediate level of clustering and significant heterophily. At all network levels, fragmentation was evident, accompanied by a low average degree and density. Notably, the Board member level demonstrated resilience against node removal, while the Blue Science Park level displayed a preferential attachment mechanism that promotes network growth. Conclusions: Overall, this research enhances our knowledge of coopetition in the telecommunications industry. It has both practical and theoretical implications, providing a solid foundation for informed decision-making, fostering collaboration, and contributing to the sustainable development of Blekinge's telecommunication industry.