Measuring Client-Vendor Distance in Global Outsourceing Relationships: A Conceptual Model

The objective of this paper is to develop a conceptual model for client-vendor distance in global IS outsourcing relationships as previous research on this issue is scarce. A multi-dimensional construct is deductively developed deploying the theory of psychic distance as a theoretical lens. A key finding is that client-vendor distance in global IS outsourcing relationships is constituted by several characteristics that go beyond language barriers, geographical distance, and cultural distance. Thus, the paper lays the grounds for the development of a theory-based measurement model of client-vendor distance in IS. Furthermore, subtle differences exist between nearand offshoring arrangements concerning the relevance and strength of individual dimensions.

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