An Integrated Success Factor Model of Professional Virtual Communities: Incorporation of the Operators, Members, and Life Cycle Perspectives

Abstract

Due to the growing importance of professional virtual communities (PVCs) to share professional knowledge in practice, this research proposes an integrated success factor model of PVCs encompassing (1) the componential aspect of a VC system from the operator's perspective, (2) the knowledge-sharing aspect of a professional community from the members' perspective, and (3) the VC's life cycle perspective. An analytical framework was established from theories integrating dimensions from the perspective of operators and members and the virtual community life cycle. To collect and categorize the detailed items of success factors, a systematic literature review and a deductive content analysis were conducted with 64 selected articles. The content analysis results represented the specific perspective of PVCs distinguished from general virtual communities, highlighting factors such as reciprocity, content quality, self-efficacy, and recognition of contributions. Moreover, the inherent patterns in the model contingent to PVC life cycle stages were captured. First, different priorities in the relevant success factor dimensions were identified. Second, the patterns of changing values along with the life- cycle were recognized differently from the operators' and member's standpoints. This model can be utilized for the service providers of PVCs in terms of the business and design of PVCs as a strategic management tool and a design guideline.