Current Practices in the Usage of Inter-Enterprise Architecture Models for the Management of Business Ecosystems

The ongoing digital transformation affects longstanding business models and creates opportunities for new ones. Business IT alignment plays a crucial role in this digital transformation. Enterprise architecture management (EAM) is designed to support and improve this alignment with the help of enterprise architecture (EA) models. With the introduction of new technologies such as the Internet of Things, companies are seeking new bundled or hybrid business models that combine services and products from different providers. Therefore, enterprises have to shift their focus on the management of business ecosystems. This study aims to provide a precise analysis of a practitioner's perspective to evaluate the relevance and capabilities of inter-enterprise architecture (IEA) models for the management of business ecosystems. We surveyed 268 practitioners in the field of EAM. Our results show compelling insights concerning the relevance of IEA models for the management of business ecosystems. Our analysis outline advantages, challenges, and suggestions for improvement within the industry.