Abstract
Firms face various challenges in business model innovation (BMI) in digital transformation (DT). To study this problem, the coherence view of internal fit has been extensively studied in strategy and business models. In addition, a dialectical alternative to fit-based models of strategy emphasizes the importance of “disciplined incoherence” for strategic renewal and transformation. However, few have drawn on systematic and empirical research into the nature of incoherence. Sorting incoherence into groups helps to understand its nature, especially its structure, and components. This research focuses on identification and classification of the incoherence and relevant sources and solutions in BMI in DT in firms. Based on the multi-case studies of 50 interviews and 2 workshops in 5 years with firms in diverse industries, the researchers summarize 6 types of incoherence, 6 types of sources of incoherence, and 6 types of solutions. Theoretically, this study classifies different types of incoherence, relevant sources and solutions, and contributes to the conceptual Business Model Cohesiveness Scorecard (BMCS) framework. Practically, this research aims to help managers clearly and accurately identify and understand the types of incoherence in BMI in DT in their firms, find appropriate solutions to manage the incoherence and have an in-depth understanding of the role that incoherence plays in BMI in DT.