Digital Capabilities of Internet based Consultancy Startups

Abstract: Advanced information and communication technologies, social media, Internet, etc. have tremendously impact on flourishing Internet based Startup around the world. Although some Internet Startups e.g. Facebook, Google, Uber, Airbnb, and Amazon are very successful, but most of the startups fail in their early stage of journey. Previous research findings show that inadequate funding, fierce competition, lack of appropriate strategies and business model, etc. are main reasons for failure of startup firms. Researchers suggest that adequate fund and proper digital business strategies can significantly support these Startups to survive and grow. Digital technologies, which include hardware, software, applications, and interactive communication technologies can significantly enhance and increase capabilities of startups through creating values and competitive advantages. Although, now days digital capabilities in large organization is getting more importance to many researchers, however a few researchers are focusing on investigating the impact of digital capabilities of Internet based startups. The study is conducted to examine how digital technologies create values for Internet based Startups Consultancy. Besides, the study investigates  the digital capabilities of and how digital technologies enhance and increase the capability of Internet based Startups Consultancy firms. Five Internet based startup consultancy firms have been investigated. Case based qualitative research methodology has been followed. As research method semi-structured and informal interviews, and observation with the companies have been conducted. The study finds that Internet based digital technologies profoundly facilitate startup companies. From businesss creation to service delivery,  digital technologies have enormously increase  digital capabilities of internet startup firms. In addition to academic researchers, the outcome of the research will be particularly important for existing startups firms and future entrepreneurs who has plan to establish new startup.