Figure 2
The framework shows three horizontally aligned columns labeled “First-order codes (Concept)”, “Second-order codes (Themes)”, and “Aggregate dimensions”. The first column, labeled “First-order codes (Concept)”, contains eighteen vertically arranged text boxes. Each text box is labeled from top to bottom as follows: Text box 1: “Creating a shared vision that allows multiple interpretations”. “Building temporary consensus without enforcing specific commitments”. Text box 2: “Allowing stakeholders to co-construct interpretations of strategic goals”. “Inviting diverse input to enhance buy-in and ownership”. Text box 3: “Using open-ended language to stimulate dialogue and participation”. “Encouraging creativity by avoiding prescriptive messaging”. Text box 4: “Using broad language to make intricate topics accessible”. “Framing strategies in general terms to appeal to diverse audiences”. Text box 5: “Framing goals broadly to accommodate different stakeholder priorities”, and “Reducing resistance by allowing flexible interpretations aligned with various interests”. Text box 6: “Withholding concrete information to buy time for internal investigations”. “Postponing decisions to align communication efforts across stakeholders”. Text box 7: “Allowing departments flexibility in interpreting strategies”. “Providing overall guidance while enabling localized decision-making”. Text box 8: “Avoiding explicit commitments to manage diverse expectations”. “Using ambiguous language to prevent direct conflicts”. Text box 9: “Crafting reassuring messages to stabilize stock prices”. “Downplaying the extent of issues to maintain market trust”. Text box 10: “Limiting disclosures to safeguard competitive advantages”. “Using vagueness to prevent exposure of sensitive details”. Text box 11: “Preserving the ability to pivot strategies as conditions change”. “Keeping options open by avoiding early commitments”. Text box 12: “Maintaining adaptability by avoiding rigid directives”. “Preserving options to adjust strategies based on new information”. Text box 13: “Keeping objectives vague to allow for adaptation to new priorities”. “Modifying communication to fit evolving circumstances”. Text box 14: “Shifting responsibility to external factors (for example, suppliers, regulatory bodies)”. “Framing crises as caused by issues beyond the firm’s control”. Text box 15: “Aligning ambiguous goals with broader policy objectives for approval”. “Using strategic vagueness to satisfy regulatory expectations”. Text box 16: “Managing public perception by avoiding specific claims”. “Minimizing the disclosure of risks to maintain a positive image”. Text box 17: “Avoiding definitive statements to minimize legal liabilities”. “Using vague responses to navigate legal risks”. Text box 18: “Presenting a unified plan despite internal uncertainties”. “Using non-specific language to appeal to various stakeholder groups”. The middle column labeled “Second-order codes (Themes)” contains eighteen vertically arranged rectangular text boxes labeled from top to bottom as follows: Rectangle 1: “Facilitating Collective Action” Rectangle 2: “Stakeholder Inclusivity” Rectangle 3: “Promoting Engagement” Rectangle 4: “Simplifying Complex Concepts” Rectangle 5: “Alignment of Interests” Rectangle 6: “Strategic Delay” Rectangle 7: “Balancing Control with Discretion” Rectangle 8: “Stakeholder Management” Rectangle 9: “Investor Confidence” Rectangle 10: “Information Protection” Rectangle 11: “Strategic Flexibility” Rectangle 12: “Operational Flexibility” Rectangle 13: “Accommodating Change” Rectangle 14: “Blame Deflection” Rectangle 15: “External Legitimacy” Rectangle 16: “Reputation Protection” Rectangle 17: “Legal Shielding” Rectangle 18: “Managing Public Perception” The rightmost column labeled “Aggregate dimensions” contains four vertically arranged oval text boxes labeled from top to bottom as follows: Oval 1: “Strategic Ambiguity aimed at Collaboration and Engagement”. Oval 2: “Strategic Ambiguity aimed at Control and Influence”. Oval 3: “Strategic Ambiguity aimed at Flexibility and Adaptability”. Oval 4: “Strategic Ambiguity aimed at Reputation and Legal Protection”. Each text box from the column “First-order codes” is connected sequentially to the corresponding rectangle in the column “Second-order Themes” with individual rightward arrows. Rectangles 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 are connected to Oval 1 with individual rightward arrows. Rectangles 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 are connected to Oval 2 with individual rightward arrows. Rectangles 11, 12, and 13 are connected to Oval 3 with individual rightward arrows, and rectangles 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18 are connected to Oval 4 with individual rightward arrows.Example of coding process