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Technical University of Munich
Technical University of Munich

Patterns of the Digital Transformation – A cross-case analysis of digital transformation initiatives

Thesis (MA)

Advisor(s): Timo Böttcher (timo.boettcher@tum.de); Philipp Kernstock (philipp.kernstock@tum.de)

Context

The digital transformation (DT) of businesses is one of the most significant phenomena shaping today’s organizational landscapes. Companies across industries are integrating digital technologies into their operations, business models, and customer experiences. Digital transformation initiatives can range from simple process optimizations to radical business model shifts that embrace digital services and products. The goal is often to increase efficiency, enhance customer satisfaction, and drive innovation. However, not all digital transformation efforts succeed, and understanding what factors lead to success or failure is critical.

In recent years, researchers have explored the building blocks of successful digital transformation strategies, but the complexity of these strategies requires a systematic and holistic approach to their analysis. This thesis will contribute to the field by conducting a cross-case analysis of 90 digital transformation initiatives, using the Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) method to uncover the configurations of conditions that influence the success or failure of these efforts.

In the context of this thesis, the QCA method will be applied to analyze data from 90 cases of digital transformation initiatives across different organizations. These cases vary in industry, organizational size, digital maturity, and approach to transformation. Each case has already been documented through interviews, which now need to be systematically coded and segmented for analysis. The reanalysis will focus on identifying patterns and configurations that explain why certain digital transformation strategies succeed and others do not.

Task(s)

·         Literature review on success factors of organizational transformation

·         Recode and segment the interview data from 90 cases.

·         Use the QCA method to uncover patterns in how organizations implement digital transformation strategies.

·         Potentially apply Generative AI tools to assist with coding the qualitative data.

·         Explore how different factors (e.g., leadership, technology adoption, strategic partnerships) influence the success of transformation initiatives

Requirements

·         Interest in digital transformation and digital strategies

·         Interest in creating and publishing high-impact research

·         High degree of autonomy and individual responsibility

  • Above-average grades or other qualifications
  • Structured, reliable and self-motivated work style

References

  • Soto Setzke, D., & Krcmar, H. (2022). Qualitative Comparative Analysis of Digital Transformation Initiatives. In Digitale Transformation. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-658-37571-3_15]​(978-3-658-37571-3_15).
  • Soto Setzke, D., et al. (2021). Pathways to Digital Service Innovation: The Role of Digital Transformation Strategies in Established Organizations. [DOI: 10.1007/s10796-021-10112-0]​(s10796-021-10112-0).
  • Riasanow, T., Soto Setzke, D., Böhm, M., & Krcmar, H. (2019). Clarifying the Notion of Digital Transformation: A Transdisciplinary Review of Literature. Journal of Competences, Strategy & Management, 10, 5-31.
  • Soto Setzke, D., Böhm, M., & Krcmar, H. (2020). Combining the Case Survey Method and Qualitative Comparative Analysis for Information Systems Research. 26. Americas Conference on Information Systems, Salt Lake City, USA.
  • Soto Setzke, D., Kavili, M., & Böhm, M. (2020). On the Use of Qualitative Comparative Analysis in Information Systems Research - A Critical Review 28. European Conference on Information Systems, Marrakesh, Morocco.

Further Information

The thesis can be written in English or German. The topic can also be adapted to your interests. If you have further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me directly. Please send your application including our application form, a current transcript of records, and your CV to timo.boettcher@tum.de. Please note that we can only consider applications with complete documents. 

 

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