Strategic Management Review > Vol 4 > Issue 2

Framing Strategic Decisions in the Digital World

Arnaldo Camuffo, Department of Management and Technology & ION Management Science Lab, SDA-Bocconi, Bocconi University, Italy, arnaldo.camuffo@unibocconi.it , Alfonso Gambardella, Department of Management and Technology & ION Management Science Lab, SDA-Bocconi, Bocconi University, Italy, and CEPR, UK, alfonso.gambardella@unibocconi.it , Andrea Pignataro, ION Group, UK & ION Management Science Lab, SDA-Bocconi, Bocconi University, Italy, ap@iongroup.com
 
Suggested Citation
Arnaldo Camuffo, Alfonso Gambardella and Andrea Pignataro (2023), "Framing Strategic Decisions in the Digital World", Strategic Management Review: Vol. 4: No. 2, pp 127-160. http://dx.doi.org/10.1561/111.00000055

Publication Date: 14 Jun 2023
© 2023 now Publishers, Inc.
 
Subjects
Behavioral strategy,  Competitive strategy,  Knowledge, innovation, and technology,  Micro-foundations of strategy,  Strategic decision-making
 
Keywords
Strategic decision-makingtheory-based strategiesdigitalizationalgorithmsuncertaintyscientific approach
 

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In this article:
Introduction 
Decisions in Algo Firms 
Strategic Decision-making in Algo Firms 
Three Conditions for High-performing Low-frequency/High-impact Decisions 
"Better Framing" as a Key Source of Competitive Advantage 
"Verticals" 
Discussion, Research Agenda, and Conclusions 
References 

Abstract

This paper develops a conceptual framework to analyze the impact of digitalization on firms. Algorithms release cognitive resources of decision-makers who can focus on low-frequency/high-impact strategic decisions, such as innovation decisions, M&As, capital structure, and the acquisition of talent. In a digital world, different ability to frame firm strategies represents a key source of competitive advantage: by adopting a scientific approach to decision-making firms can embrace rather than escape uncertainty and rely on owners as strategists. We show that the growth of knowledge (Δ K) becomes the ultimate purpose of the firm, from which other purposes descend. We analyze some applications of the framework and conclude by suggesting a research agenda.

DOI:10.1561/111.00000055