| This study examined the nature of competitor analysis in the government contracting market by addressing the research question: What is the nature of competitor analysis during a competition for a government contract? Stones (2005) Strong Structuration Theory was used as a theoretical lens in a basic interpretive qualitative method of inquiry.;Study participants shared their experiences conducting competitor analyses during semi-structured interviews. Data was analyzed through the application of Strong Structuration Theory methodological bracketing.;The study provided an in depth description of competitor analysis in the government contracting market and identified six themes regarding the nature of competitor analysis: (1) Competitor analysis is generally unguided, (2) Competitor analysis participants are the key informants, (3) Competitor analysis is improvisational and leads to action, (4) Competitor analysis is anticipatory and relies on assuming other's perspectives, (5) Competitor analysis involves interaction and conflict and (6) Competitor analysis is iterative and skeptical of information inputs and sources. Four conclusions are also provided in the study: (1) The definition of competitor analysis should be expanded to include additional elements, (2) The competitor analysis process is not supported by training for participants, even though the process is information heavy and relies upon participants as a primary source of information regarding competitors and clients, (3) Competitor analysis techniques recommended by strategy theory are used by practitioners. However, in practice, these techniques are not recognized as such and (4) The biggest variety in competitor analysis in the government contracting market is in the factors considered. Recommendations for theory, practice and future research are offered. |
