Network Openness and Performance under Multi-Dimensional Uncertainty in Korean B2B Markets

Abstract

Purpose: This study explores how network openness influences firm performance under varying types of uncertainty in Korean B2B markets. It aims to provide strategic guidance for firms to navigate complex environments by tailoring network management approaches to specific uncertainty dimensions. Research design, data and methodology: The study analyzes how network openness affects network performance and how these effects are moderated by environmental, industry, and demand uncertainty. We tested the hypotheses using cross-sectional survey data collected from Korean plant engineering networks and conducted multiple regression analysis using STATA. Results: The analysis reveals that while network openness generally improves performance, its effectiveness is not uniform across all types of uncertainty. Specifically, openness appears to be more advantageous when firms face broad environmental uncertainty, whereas its benefits diminish or become ambiguous under conditions of demand-related volatility. Industry-specific uncertainty, on the other hand, does not show a consistent moderating influence. These patterns highlight the nuanced relationship between openness and contextual factors. Conclusions: This study provides both theoretical and practical insights by clarifying when and how network openness contributes to performance outcomes in uncertain environments. It also highlights methodological limitations such as the challenge of capturing subjective network attributes and the constraints of cross-sectional data. Future research should adopt longitudinal or cross-cultural approaches to further explore the contingent dynamics of network strategy.