Defining international construction joint ventures from the Wittgenstein family-resemblance theory

Abstract

Joint ventures have been on the agenda of international contractors for the last few decades. Managing international construction joint ventures (ICJVs) and the performance of ICJVs has become the main subjects that researchers focused on after 2000. It is not possible to make the definition of ICJVs in a traditional way. That’s why; the aim of this study is to make a contribution to the vague definition of ICJVs by using Ludwig Wittgenstein’s family-resemblance theory as a method. Wittgenstein supposed that it is possible to understand a complex concept as a network of overlapping similarities. Researchers have applied Wittgenstein’s family-resemblance theory to partnering, alliancing and relational contracting in construction. Similar to those studies, this study provides an innovative method to define vague concept of ICJVs by using Wittgenstein’s idea of family resemblance theory. Components of ICJVs that were determined through an intensive literature review are used in this study in order to make a comprehensive definition. Finally, it was stated that combinations of these components differ to due cases after applying the sunflower model to three international aviation projects. The contribution of this innovative definition can be useful for both industrial practitioners and researchers, since it provides a flexible and structured way to discuss the multifaceted concept of ICJVs. In the procurement phase of an ICJV, professionals may use sunflower model in order to understand the differential dynamics of the venture. The model will also be a tool for defining the specific components of each venture and a common starting point for discussions between partners, thus avoiding any misinterpretations of what an ICJV is.