Inter-firm network structures: theory evolution, type classification, approaches to performance evaluation

This article aims to fill the methodological gap identified in the study of the development of inter-firm network structures: insufficient systematization of the identified stages of their evolution and classification, as well as almost no forecasting of the effectiveness of their use. The rationale for this approach is based on the fact that, despite the impressive growing investments in the development of network structures, their volumes, and assessments of implementation results, the statistics of implementation, in particular, of CRM systems, are alarming. According to experts, the percentage of failures ranges from 40 to 80%. It is hypothesized that the current diversity of inter-firm information systems stems from the historical development of the theory of network interactions. They can be used effectively only if there is a clear understanding of the genesis of network concepts, the specifics of interaction between economic agents, and the degree of organization's readiness to use them. The research methodology includes an interdisciplinary analysis: comparison of theories from social psychology, mathematics, economics, and management; a critical review of definitions of network interactions; and a study of the domestic market for interorganizational IT solutions. Methods used include structural-logical analysis, comparative classification, and analytical interpretation of industry reports. As a result, the research systematizes the evolution of scientific ideas about network interactions, identifies key stages of the formation of relevant theories, and proposes a classification of terms describing the forms of inter-firm networks. Based on the analysis of the Russian market for CRM and SRM solutions, the research identifies key technological trends, limitations of current IT systems, and factors determining the growing demand for flexible and unified platforms. The author proposes a classification of inter-organizational information systems based on four criteria: the type of supplier involvement, the focus on a specific counterparty, the degree of technological openness, and the dominant value-creating function. The article concludes on the need to further optimize inter-organizational information systems, taking into account the strategic goals of network interactions and the needs of the participants. Based on the proposed classification of existing approaches to performance evaluation, the article identifies future research areas, including the development of criteria for forecasting the effectiveness of inter-organizational information systems and the parameters that ensure the measurability of their implementation results.