Unveiling the dark side of value management: main types of value co-destruction behaviours in new infrastructure projects

Purpose New infrastructure is a novel platform and means of value creation. However, not all projects are beneficial, and some may result in negative outcomes; this situation is called value co-destruction. Value co-destruction of new infrastructure has not received sufficient attention, seriously hindering the value realisation of such projects. Therefore, this study aims to conduct a systematic investigation of the indicators of value co-destruction behaviour in new infrastructures. Design/methodology/approach Firstly, the connotation of value co-destruction in new infrastructures was conceptualised on the basis of a literature review. Secondly, with the use of grounded theory, a questionnaire was designed. Thirdly, research data were collected through a questionnaire survey, which produced 470 valid replies in Shanghai City, China. Finally, SPSS software was employed to analyse the data, followed by correlation analysis of age and region for each indicator. Findings Five underlying groups of indicators were identified as follows: (1) value co-destruction behaviours on the basis of insufficient service capabilities, (2) value co-destruction behaviour on the basis of lack of resources, (3) value co-destruction behaviours stemming from information data security issues, (4) value co-destruction behaviours on the basis of value and interest conflicts and (5) value co-destruction behaviours on the basis of poor operation management. Afterwards, three managerial implications were presented to prevent value co-destruction behaviour. The three implications are (1) strengthen the capabilities of network security governance, (2) encourage enterprises to engage in fair competition to improve service quality and (3) enhance public participation. Originality/value This study systematically investigated the main types of negative behaviours in new infrastructures for the first time, providing decision-makers with a comprehensive understanding of value creation and loss in the context of new infrastructures. The findings help prevent potential social risks arising from the application of new infrastructures, thereby promoting the public's satisfaction with new infrastructures.