Authors
Tsutomu Ito, Katsuhiko Takahashi, Katsumi Morikawa, Takao Ito, Rajiv Mehta,
Seigo Matsuno, Makoto Sakamoto
Corresponding Author
Tsutomu Ito
Available Online 1 June 2017.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.2991/jrnal.2017.4.1.18
Keywords
degree, fragility, Keiretsu, relationship, Yokokai.
Abstract
A survey of the relevant literature reveals that a plethora of network
analytic facets, such as degree, eigenvalue, density, block, cluster, have
been developed and employed to further our understanding of network structures.
To extend our understanding of network systems, additional dimensions need
to be identified that shed light on the dynamic processes among individual
member nodes within network structures. Within the context of network systems,
this paper proposes a new concept of fragility. More specifically, it develops
and empirically tests a mathematical model of fragility from the standpoint
of how ties among network members significantly influence corporate performance,
thus uniquely contributing to extant knowledge. Using data drawn from two
well-known network organizations, Mazda and Toyota, this research attempts
to shed light on the relationship between degree and fragility, to confirm
the validity of the new concept as well as enabling a contrast of Mazda
and Toyota’s network structures. Based on the findings, the managerial
implications are discussed, the study limitations are identified and directions
for further research are suggested.
Copyright
© 2013, the Authors. Published by ALife Robotics Corp. Ltd.
Open Access
This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/).