Transaction Cost Theory, Resource-Based Theory and Relational Exchange Theory: A Comparison

Literature Review on Fundamental Theories
IT outsourcing is a topic that not in short of theories. During the last 3 decades, a large amount of empirical work across the last three decades has been guided by three main categories of theories. Those theory groups further developed into different schools which are the base for analyzing the impacts of outsourcing activities. In this research, empirical work based on three most important theories from economic (Transaction cost theory), strategic (Resource- based theory) and social category( relational/ social theories ) were selected for an in depth discussion. No claims are made that any one theory outperforms others. Each represents a particular theoretical orientation and a different form

Relational exchange Theory
Relational exchange theory is based on sociology. Relational exchange also can be defined as an interactive process, where mutual understandings were developed, commitments were made and finally achieved the desired outcomes. The relational exchange theory believes that the relational norms are the tools for controlling opportunism and create a healthy long-term collaborative framework. The relational exchange arrangement can be viewed as a method to fix the flaws of formal contract, which undermines trust and thereby encourage the opportunistic behavior.
The core of the theory is relational norms which can help build up an effective contract governance, and eventually achieve a better vendor- customer relationship. “Many classifications of norms have been proposed, but no one is regarded as dominant. Heide and John (1992) have proposed that relational norms are a higher order construct consisting of three dimensions: flexibility, information exchange, and solidarity” (Solli-Saether & Gottschalk, 2010, p. 32). The critical success factor is to develop and secure common norms between

That means all IT functions where benefits for the company are greater than the transactions costs should be outsourced, benefits include increased revenue or reduced costs. In terms of governance mode selection, A market governance mode is preferred when transaction costs are low. Because of economies of scale and scope. Alternatively, an internal governance mode is preferred when transaction costs are high. Organizations can minimize costs by reducing the need for lasting specific IT assets, increase transaction frequency, reduce complexity and uncertainty in IT tasks, improve performance measurements, and reduce dependence on other