A fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis of factors influencing successful shared service center implementation

Purpose Organizations nowadays require services supplied by shared service centers (SSCs) to achieve organizational responsiveness. Previous contributions focused on distinct qualitative-explorative factors for explaining successful SSC implementation but failed consider the interdependencies and combined effects between factors. Design/methodology/approach Drawing complexity configuration theories, this research employed a fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA). A unique dataset of 121 international firms was obtained examine five conditions (factors), namely, modularization, standardization, decision-rights, portfolio customer-orientation . Findings The findings show that multiple configurations (or solutions) can lead implementation. fsQCA results indicated standardization are perceived as core in all configurations. Firms focus continuous evaluation more likely be successful. Furthermore, some configurations, size firm matters. Research limitations/implications cross-sectional survey data might potential limitation. In future research, extensive collected help generalize results. Practical implications Success dependent configuration. Standardization, management regular evaluations changing customer executive needed. Originality/value To best authors' knowledge, there is no academic study examines based salient using configurational thinking approach. As such, allow us better understand causal essential