Integrated corporate social responsibility : Driving factors and means of integration – a multiple case study analysis

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to understand what the determinants for integrated corporate social responsibility (CSR) are and how they lead to different means of integration. Design/methodology/approach In this study, a research methodology based on the multiple case analysis was chosen. The selection of case studies was based on the combined application of literal and theoretical replication. Within the technique of theoretical replication, maximum variation and criterion methods were used. In order to increase the reliability of the results, a research protocol for data collection was defined by combining two different techniques: semi-structured interviews and content analysis of documents and websites. Findings The integration of CSR depends on three factors: the macro-environment, the competitive context and the management philosophy. In particular, management philosophy is the internal variable on which the type of strategic or operational integration depends. Practical implications The main managerial implications arising from the empirical analysis can be summarized as follows: first, external conditions influence the CSR management, but the company’s success is tied to the management philosophy; second, innovative business ideas are related to a proactive management approach to CSR; and third the consistency between the management philosophy and the means for managing CSR is fundamental to integrate CSR into strategic management. Originality/value The analysis allows to fill the literature gap related to the strategic integration of CSR (driving factors and means of integration).