Systemic Perspective in Process Models for Sustainability-Oriented Business Model Innovation

Abstract

Climate change and resource scarcity require companies and other stakeholders to operate more sustainably. The development of new sustainable business models can play a crucial role in achieving the necessary transformation. Business models for sustainability (BMfS) in general, and circular business models (CBM) in specific, generally describe the way in which companies create, deliver, and capture value within a broader system of stakeholders. Compared to traditional business models, BMfS and CBM are more interdependent and interconnected. This calls for a more systemic perspective in their development. In the literature, process models for business model innovation (BMI) have been discussed to describe the necessary steps from ideation to implementation of new business models. However, so far, no specific focus has been put on the consideration of systemic perspective in such process models. Therefore, we first conduct a systematic literature review to identify 27 existing process models for BMI in the context of sustainability. We then map the discussed process phases and synthesize them into a holistic process model for BMI for sustainability (BMIfS) consisting of 11 phases. Each phase is explained in detail by assigning relevant tasks and activities. Lastly, we identify activities relevant to the systemic perspective and discuss further potentials for a systemic perspective. The paper contributes to the growing literature on sustainability-oriented BMI, provides guidance for decision-makers, and offers a new research avenue by focusing on the systemic perspective of the underlying process.