A Conceptual Framework for Research into Co-Operative Enterprise

Abstract

This paper outlines a conceptual framework for approaching research into the co-operative enterprise business model and its sustainability. The model examines the co-op from three perspectives, that of the member, that of the co-op as a business entity, and the wider systems level. Key units of analysis for each level are outlined. Also considered within the model are three primary objectives for the co-op: the need to build identity; the need to build social capital and the need to build sustainability. The application of resilience architecture to help understand the dynamic behavior of the co-operative enterprise over time is also discussed.

Keywords: co-operative enterprise, social capital, conceptual framework, member value