Exploring resource exchange: active model approach

Abstract

The exchange of resources has been a vital part of human lives for a long time and the mechanisms with in it have been intriguing mankind, therefore the logic behind the relevant decisions needed to be understood. The first objective was to study different resource exchange theories and how they can be applied for the active resource exchange. The second objective was to create a model which would describe the active exchange of resources. Research was conducted mainly following the principles of grounded theory and supported by integrative literature review. After database searches and screening, 15 resource exchange theories were selected for empirical study, which were divided into two main categories: the Firm Perspective and the Individual Perspective. From the selected material the characteristics of the theories were analyzed in order to create a view of the existing findings. The results helped in creating an active resource exchange model (AREM), which can provide a useful learning tool for recognizing notable influencing factors at information gathering and preparations for strategic planning. AREM can be seen as a map for exploring the different and new aspects of resource exchange. The findings also generated a structure for active resource exchange situations on a more general level.