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Web-based Procurement New Roles for Intermediaries

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Abstract

The electronic markets vs. electronic hierarchies debate initiated by (Malone et al. 1987) has been superseded by the discussion about dis- or reintermediation in the electronic marketplace. Many of the arguments given for either side are equally correct—because the arguments have been applied to different domains in different situations from specific perspectives—and yet the debate falls short of covering the complexity and dynamics of the ongoing market structure change. The goal of this paper is therefore to develop a more differentiated framework that facilitates the understanding of chances and threats resulting from inter- and cybermediation. The framework suggests to distinguish roles, opportunities and threats for cybermediaries in different situations. While the framework is meant to structure the debate in general, we will focus on public sector procurement to show its application.

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Klein, S., Teubner, R.A. Web-based Procurement New Roles for Intermediaries. Information Systems Frontiers 2, 19–30 (2000). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1010089702522

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