Unveiling motivational drivers: exploring consortium participation for standardization enhancement

Abstract

This thesis explores the various motivators and demotivators that influence participation in a consortium aimed at enhancing standardization. Through qualitative research and an interpretivist approach, interviews were conducted with ten stakeholders involved in a consortium dedicated to defining standards in clinical supplies management. The findings reveal that the factors driving or discouraging participation can be categorized into the industry, firm, and personal level. The industry level influences the firm level, which in turn influences the personal level. However, it is evident that these motivators and demotivators across different levels are not always aligned and can sometimes be in conflict. Consortia have the potential to actively mitigate these demotivators and enhance motivators. Future research should investigate the long-term development of consortia beyond the initial design phases, as this could provide insights into the evolving dynamics among stakeholders, particularly as new members join, existing members adjust their priorities, or external pressures impact the consortium’s direction.