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- Coopetition Technology-Enabled Service Ecosystems: A Framework to Improve the Portuguese Ornamental Stone SectorPublication . Silva, Agostinho Manuel Antunes da; Cardoso, António João MarquesThis doctoral thesis critically examines the design, implementation, and effectiveness of coopetition networks among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the dynamic and complex realms of digital and global supply chains. The study addresses the challenges that SMEs face, including financial constraints, operational inefficiencies, scalability issues, customer satisfaction demands, and pressures related to ecological sustainability. To address these challenges, the research introduces and empirically tests the Coopetition Network for Value Cocreation (CN-VCC) framework, subsequently operationalized through the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) as the Coopetition Technology-enabled Service Ecosystem (CNEcoTech). The Design Science Research (DSR) methodology, integrated with Service-Dominant (S-D) Logic, underpins the framework's development and validation, with a specific focus on the Portuguese ornamental stone sector (OS-PT), an industry of significant economic importance that is yet to be fully challenged by digital transformation and global market integration. Following the DSR stages of designing and developing an artefact, implementing a Proof-ofConcept (PoC), and an Experimental Pilot Project, the thesis assesses the CN-EcoTech artefacts's impact across multiple dimensions: operational efficiency, scale, customer satisfaction, and ecological sustainability. The findings reveal that engagement levels within the CN-EcoTech framework correlate with significant improvements in OS.PT SMEs. Specifically, SMEs fully engaged in the framework demonstrated enhanced deal closures, robust customer relationships, and superior operational outcomes compared to their less-engaged counterparts. This differential highlights the potential of deep integration into technology-based coopetition frameworks to overcome traditional and emerging market challenges. The thesis confirms that the CN-EcoTech framework facilitates long-term collaboration among SMEs and effectively addresses the challenges of digital and global supply chains. It extends beyond the immediate empirical setting of the OS-PT sector, suggesting broader applicability to similar SME-dominated industries facing digital integration challenges. Academically, this research augments the understanding of coopetition dynamics and provides a structured approach to evaluating and implementing technology-enabled service ecosystems. However, more importantly, it offers actionable insights for industry stakeholders and policymakers, empowering them with strategies to enhance SME competitiveness and sustainability in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This thesis lays a foundation for future research to explore the scalability of the CN-EcoTech framework across diverse sectors. It offers a robust model for enhancing SME resilience and innovation capacity in a globally interconnected economy.