Cross-Boundary Disruptors: Powerful Inter-Industry Entrepreneurial Change Agents

Robert A. Burgelman and Andrew S. Grove
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Robert A. Burgelman: Stanford U
Andrew S. Grove: ?

Research Papers from Stanford University, Graduate School of Business

Abstract: Based on comparative case studies of Apple Computer's strategic actions in the music and cellular telephony industries, we develop the concept of "cross-boundary disruptor" as a new type of entrepreneurial actor in inter-industry strategic dynamics. We document how the confluence of forces that drove the convergence of the music and computing industries gave rise to Apple Computer becoming a defining example of a cross-boundary disruptor to the music industry, and examine Apple's chances to do the same in the cellular telephony industry. Using our preliminary conceptual framework, we further examine what kind of company could become a cross-boundary disruptor in the US healthcare industry to help overcome its long-standing stasis. We summarize our case study-based findings into a preliminary substantive theory of the cross-boundary disruption phenomenon, and discuss several implications for further strategic entrepreneurship research and for strategic leadership practice.

Date: 2007-10
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-cse and nep-ent
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (16)

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