Framework for selecting an appropriate e-business model in managerial holding companies: Case study: Iran Khodro

Purpose – The main aim of the present study is to propose a framework for selecting an appropriate electronic business (e-business) model in managerial holding companies with a chain structure acting in the area of the automobile industry. Design/methodology/approach – This is an applied study conducted as a survey and case study. First, the factors affecting selection of an appropriate e-business model in managerial holding companies with chain structure in auto industry are identified through a survey and by testing hypotheses. Then, these factors are measured as a case study in Iran Khodro Co. so that the appropriate e-business model can be determined for this managerial holding company with chain structure. Findings – In this study, 18 different factors were identified for the five main criteria in identifying e-business. Using the survey conducted in the statistical sample, only three factors of internal and external integration of human resources, flexibility, and decentralization in the responsibilities were identified as less important factors in identifying an appropriate model of e-business in managerial holding companies with chain structure in automobile industry. Research limitations/implications – One limitation of the study was lack of sufficient managerial holding companies with a chain structure in the Iranian automobile industry, so that only two companies of Iran Khodro and Saipa possess holding and chain structure. Thus, generalization of the results of this study to the whole society must be done with great care in association with more researches. Originality/value – This study, expanding and operationalizing a conceptual model, tries to identify the set of determining factors in selecting appropriate e-business models in the managerial holding companies with a chain structure in the automobile industry.