Research on value creation path of logistics platform under the background of digital ecosystem: Based on SEM and fsQCA methods

Digitalization and platform ecosystem have subverted the value creation mode between traditional logistics actors and brought new value additions. Few studies have been done to investigate the influencing factors prompting such value creation of digital platform ecological cooperation in the Chinese logistics industry. The study bridges the gap by using structural equation modeling and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis methods to investigate data from 347 Chinese logistics firms cooperating under the logistics platform. Findings:(1) identification of customer value proposition, complementary cooperation, and multi-party interaction had an indirect influence on logistics service value realization. While transaction cost reduction and digital innovation had a direct influence. (2) Digital capabilities have a positive moderating effect on the relationship between transaction cost reduction and value realization. (3) Comparing the configurations of value realization and ~value realization, it is found that enterprises cannot create value if they only save costs without operation, and should improve digital capabilities to reduce transaction costs. At the same time, the identification of customer value proposition is the source of value creation.