An Evaluation Framework to Support Development of Virtual Enterprises

This paper presents an evaluation framework within a lifecycle and stakeholder-oriented approach to support development of a virtual enterprise. With the purpose of providing a conceptual understanding of the lifecycle based approach and proving the concept, a case study is carried out within DIECoM, an IST project funded under the EC’s Framework V programme. Consequently, there is a set of heuristics being developed during the process of using this approach and from the findings of the case study, i.e. stakeholder and cost & effectiveness analysis. In addition, potential issues in the DIECoM project are identified from observations made during the process of applying the lifecycle-based approach combined with interviews with those involved in this project. Moreover, it highlights needs to be addressed for further research. Keyword: lifecycle-based approach, stakeholder, cost & effectiveness analysis