Larissa Koch de Souza, Martin Engstler: MEASURING SUSTAINABILITY: A CIRCULAR ECONOMY MATURITY MODEL FOR IT SERVICE PROVIDERS
Original Paper
Larissa Koch de Souza, Stuttgart Media University, Germany
Martin Engstler, Stuttgart Media University, Germany
DOI: https://doi.org/10.59014/XVKR9225
Keywords:
Circular Economy, IT Services, Maturity Model, Sustainability
Abstract
The IT service industry faces substantial challenges in adapting to evolving economic
and environmental conditions, fostering an increased interest in Circular Economy
(CE) as a viable approach to achieve economic and ecological benefits. Despite its
potential, the implementation of CE within the IT services sector remains complex,
as the industry lacks specific, context driven guidelines. This paper addresses this
challenge by developing and presenting a CE maturity model tailored for IT service
providers. By identifying key areas of action within CE and outlining associated
activities, the model serves as a practical framework, offering targeted recommendations
to advance the CE maturity of IT service providers, thereby supporting both
sustainable and economic improvement.
The model founded on a Systematic Literature Review, detailed in a separate publication,
and a focus group study conducted via an expert workshop. Findings from
these methodologies and the development of the maturity model highlight five key
action areas: ‘Ecosystem,’ ‘External Influences,’ ‘Company Management,’ ‘IT & Digitalization’
and ‘Circular Strategy.’ Using a grading system, the maturity level of an
IT service provider can be assessed across these action areas, assigning a CE maturity
level from ‘inactive’ to ‘proactive’. This classification enables IT service enterprises to
assess their current state in ecological and economical sustainability, facilitating improved
CE implementation. Consequently, the developed CE maturity model serves
as a practical tool for adopting and evaluating circular business models and processes,
offering a sustainable solution to the environmental and economic pressures
facing the IT service industry. Furthermore, the CE maturity model is adaptable to
other sectors within the service industries and the creative economy sector.
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