Proximity: Synthesis, Six-Dimensional Typology, and Significance for Cooperation Performance

Abstract

In recent years, the concept of proximity becomes more popular not only in the field of economic geography but—surprisingly—also in strategic management. The growing attention paid to the considerations about proximity stems from the fact that it may be perceived as a significant factor leveraging effectiveness and performance of both cooperating (or coopeting) organizations and inter-organizational networks. Therefore, this paper attempts to explore and synthesize prior literature on proximity and its dimensions. Nevertheless, the main aim is to develop a consistent, logical, theory-based multidimensional proximity framework applicable in any further research investigations undertaken within strategic management, especially those adopting the relational view on strategic advantage. Drawn from existing literature, this paper presents the significance of proximity for collaboration and networking and helps to understand the essence of its particular dimensions. By identifying and limiting the drawbacks of prior approaches to proximity, six—separate hence interrelated—dimensions of proximity are outlined and discussed, thus the holistic proximity framework is developed. The main contribution of this conceptual paper is development of six-dimensional proximity framework (including geographical, cognitive, organizational, social, institutional, and communicational proximities) truly removing substantial barriers for further exploration and exemplification of proximity concept.