To be independent or balance interdependence?

IMP Journal ◽  
2016 ◽  
Vol 10 (2) ◽  
pp. 260-275 ◽  
Author(s):  
Milena Ratajczak-Mrozek ◽  
Magdalena Herbeć
Keyword(s):  
Small Firms ◽  
Policy Implications ◽  
Small Enterprises ◽  
Sources Of Information ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Secondary Sources ◽  
Foreign Companies ◽  
Micro And Small Enterprises ◽  
The Creation ◽  
Technology Industries

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to identify in what way micro and small firms from low-technology industries which are dependent on foreign companies can ensure that they derive benefits from these relationships and what is more, in what way government policy should support this. Design/methodology/approach – A longitudinal study of a furniture company has been used. The company’s relationship with its large foreign customer is analysed from the perspective of the market-oriented power dependence and the IMP interdependence concept. Additionally the secondary sources of information about Polish furniture industry have been used in order to present its international specificity. Findings – The analysis shows that micro and small firms may derive benefits from their relationships with foreign entities due to their flexibility and the creation of heavy resources based on the standards of cooperation. Policies supporting exports and internationalisation cannot be isolated activities which end with the creation of foreign contacts and initiating transactions. Policy makers should concentrate on the support of the knowledge and experience exchange in terms of maintaining contacts with foreign entities as well as creation of a favourable framework of conditions for companies. Practical implications – The recommendations may be applied to design a policy supporting micro and small enterprises representing low-technology industries from economies with a limited internal market. Originality/value – The paper compares the perspective of a market-orientated power-dependency concept with the IMP interdependency approach. This sheds a light by adding an analysis of how to best utilise interdependencies on both sides of the supplier-customer interface. Both opportunities and hindrances resulting from the relationship between small firms and larger foreign companies are highlighted. Thanks to this approach a discussion is conducted in order to illustrate the policy implications of supporting micro and small enterprises from low-technology industries.

Management accounting use in micro and small enterprises

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Tonatiuh Najera Ruiz ◽  
Pablo Collazzo
Keyword(s):  
Small Businesses ◽  
Small Firms ◽  
Management Accounting ◽  
Traditional Approach ◽  
Relative Weight ◽  
Small Enterprises ◽  
Exploratory Research ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Relevant Implication ◽  
Micro And Small Enterprises

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore if and how micro and small firms apply management accounting (MA) techniques. Design/methodology/approach The study is based on 36 semistructured interviews with micro and small firm owners/managers in Mexico. Content analysis is used to identify how these enterprises use MA tools. Findings Micro and small firms consistently use MA tools. Most of them have some sort of planning, set objectives, have a costing system – even if budgeting is unusual – and use one or two metrics to monitor performance. Research limitations/implications This is exploratory research with a limited and nonrandom sample. Only a limited number of MA tools were studied. Practical implications Micro and small firms’ use of MA tools. This is arguably important because these enterprises use these techniques in a way that is different from the traditional approach used in bigger corporations. A relevant implication emerging from the findings, as a contribution to practice would be the need to include MA for micro and small businesses in formal training and textbooks. Originality/value On top of providing and assessing empirical evidence on a debate that has been so far largely theoretical, and on the back of the relative weight of micro and small enterprises in any given economy, this paper aims at reinforcing awareness on the need to further the study of the decision-making process in such firms.

Environmental management training for micro and small enterprises: the missing link?

2017 ◽  
Vol 24 (2) ◽  
pp. 297-312 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sue Cassells ◽  
Kate V. Lewis
Keyword(s):  
Environmental Management ◽  
Small Firms ◽  
Manufacturing Sector ◽  
Personal Responsibility ◽  
Management Training ◽  
Small Enterprises ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Exposure Effect ◽  
Parametric Testing ◽  
Micro And Small Enterprises

Purpose Micro and small enterprises face growing expectations from stakeholders to behave responsibly in respect of environmental management. However, many continue to exhibit patterns of relative disengagement with both environmental management and associated training. The purpose of this paper is to explore the attitudes and experiences that underpin both. Design/methodology/approach The paper is based on survey data from 148 owner-managers of micro and small firms in New Zealand’s manufacturing sector. Binary logit regression and non-parametric testing were employed to examine influences on engagement with both environmental management and environmental training. Findings There is a lack of knowledge of, and participation in, training related to environmental management. Awareness tends to be from firms already engaged in training; signalling a potential circularity of exposure effect. A distinct division in attitude exists between those who identify with personal responsibility and autonomy as the pathway to responsibility in respect of their firm’s environmental impact and those who cede to the collective actions of other communities to dictate engagement (i.e. industry associations and government). Research limitations/implications The survey is based on the perceptions of the respondents to the survey statements and as such it is a self-assessment. Originality/value The paper is one of few that investigate the challenge of securing engagement with training and development in environmental management by micro and small enterprises in the New Zealand context.

Germinating seeds in dry soil: examining the process of frugal innovation in micro- and small-enterprises at the base of the pyramid

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Miriam Borchardt ◽  
Charbel José Chiappetta Jabbour ◽  
José de Figueiredo Belém ◽  
Venkatesh Mani ◽  
Giancarlo Medeiros Pereira ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Business Models ◽  
Raw Materials ◽  
Life Cycles ◽  
Small Enterprises ◽  
Base Of The Pyramid ◽  
Frugal Innovation ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Fashion Products ◽  
Poor Region ◽  
Micro And Small Enterprises

Purpose This study aims to examine the process of frugal innovation (FI) in micro- and small-enterprises (MSEs) at the base of the pyramid (BOP) through the analytical lens of business models. Design/methodology/approach A case study was conducted with 30 MSEs from three different industries in a very poor region in Brazil. Findings The findings indicate that, in cases where FI is intense and dynamic, the start of the FI process is based on the reinterpretation of fashion trends and influences from the business ecosystem while the consolidation of FI in MSEs occurs through the reconfiguration of resources. Additionally, this study shows that FI depends on conditions other than the production of frugal products for BOP consumers. Research limitations/implications This study points out that the presence of end-of-life non-BOP raw materials distributed by large distributors in the case of fashion products, along with the interaction between MSEs at the BOP and these distributors, trigger FI and are profitable for both. For non-fashion products with long life cycles, there is no demand for innovation. Originality/value This study addresses the research void present in the literature on FI by presenting the process of FI and the conditions that leverage or stagnate FI in MSEs at the BOP, as well as how business models are shaped by these conditions.

scholarly journals Lessons on a novel integration approach of emerging market acquisitions in developed countries

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Sandra Figueira ◽  
Rui Torres de Oliveira ◽  
Daniel Rottig ◽  
Francesca Spigarelli
Keyword(s):  
Emerging Market ◽  
Developed Countries ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Secondary Sources ◽  
Integration Approach ◽  
Acquisition Integration ◽  
Multiple Case ◽  
The Creation ◽  
Context Specific

PurposeThis paper constitutes an explorative study into post-acquisition implementation of emerging market acquisitions in developed countries. More specifically, the study aims to better understand how low capability Chinese firms are able to capture value when acquiring high-capability targets in developed countries through a novel post-acquisition integration approach. In so doing, we set out to contribute to the literature on, and managerial insights into, the factors that determine the success of emerging market acquisitions, in general, and the context-specific use of post-acquisition implementation approaches, in particular.Design/methodology/approachThe study follows a qualitative analysis and multiple case study design based on a phenomenon-based research approach. Data and information were collected through semi-structure executive interviews, observations, secondary sources, company report and media accounts.FindingsBased on institutional theory, this study develops a conceptual framework for a tacit value approach toward the integration of acquisitions of developed market targets by emerging market acquirers.Originality/valueThe proposed tacit value approach of post-acquisition integration, which refers to the creation of intangible value over time, differs from the explicit value approach that is associated with the transaction-cost literature and more focused on the creation of tangible value in the short-term.

Reassessing the contents and context of governance in Asia: recognizing achievements

2019 ◽  
Vol 8 (4) ◽  
pp. 353-363 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ahmed Shafiqul Huque
Keyword(s):  
Good Governance ◽  
Primary Sources ◽  
Political Systems ◽  
Sources Of Information ◽  
Asian Countries ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Secondary Sources ◽  
Alternative Approach ◽  
Ranking Countries

Purpose Good governance has been declared as the key target of most Asian governments, but it appears to be an unattainable objective. The purpose of this paper is to explore the potentials for establishing governance across Asian countries. Drawing upon the literature and experience of Asian countries, the study argues that governance represents an unclear state that is rooted more in perception than reality. An extensive review of the indicators of governance reveals the anomaly and unorganized efforts to measure it, and points to the need for recognizing accomplishments in areas that are not directly or indirectly covered in the existing schemes of assessment. Design/methodology/approach The paper is based on a broad review of the literature on governance and political systems in Asian countries. Existing arrangements for assessing governance are critically reviewed to point out the risks in a perception-dependent approach. Secondary sources and insight obtained from relevant research constitute the data analyzed in the paper. Findings The paper finds that the target of good governance cannot be fully achieved due to the significant diversity across Asian countries as well as varied perceptions held by assessors. Stakeholders have different perceptions about the requirements and ideal of governance and existing tools for measuring governance are inadequate. Most importantly, assessment frameworks do not recognize contextual dimensions that are relevant to Asian countries. Furthermore, it is important to recognize efforts that are aimed at improving conditions instead of working toward an absolute outcome of governance. Recognition of small successes will contribute to the improvement of circumstances rather than ranking countries on the basis of a limited number of perception-based indicators and listing them on international indices. Research limitations/implications The paper does not draw upon primary sources of information and is limited to an assessment of existing arrangements. Practical implications The paper will help draw attention to the limitations of existing arrangements of assessing countries and ranking them for the quality of governance. It will also encourage researchers to think about alternative tools for assessing governance and recognizing progress in Asian countries. Social implications The paper will encourage governments to identify obstacles to good governance and adopt policies to overcome them. Originality/value The paper contributes to the literature presenting a critical view for encouraging alternative approach to governance, incorporating perceptions of diverse stakeholders and highlights the need to recognize progress, however limited, in all areas.

Amateurism, scientific control, and crime: historical fluctuations in anti-doping discourses in sport

2018 ◽  
Vol 4 (1) ◽  
pp. 18-29
Author(s):  
Ian Ritchie ◽  
Kathryn Henne
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Historical Approach ◽  
Secondary Sources ◽  
The World ◽  
World Anti Doping Agency ◽  
Time Periods ◽  
The Creation ◽  
High Level

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to assess the institutional mechanisms for combating doping in high-level sport, including the trend toward using legalistic frameworks, and how they contribute to notions of deviance. Design/methodology/approach A historical approach informed by recent criminological adaptations of genealogy was utilized, using primary and secondary sources. Findings Three time periods involving distinct frameworks for combating doping were identified, each with their own advantages and limitations: pre-1967, post-1967 up until the creation of the World Anti-Doping Agency in 1999, and post-1999. Originality/value This study contextualizes the recent legalistic turn toward combating doping in sport, bringing greater understanding to the limitations of present anti-doping practices.

Influence of participation in “table banking” on the size of women-owned micro and small enterprises in Kenya

2015 ◽  
Vol 9 (4) ◽  
pp. 315-326 ◽  
Author(s):  
Castro Ngumbu Gichuki ◽  
Milcah Mulu Mutuku ◽  
Lydia Nkatha Kinuthia
Keyword(s):  
Data Collection ◽  
Women Entrepreneurs ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Secondary Level ◽  
Small Enterprises ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Positive Growth ◽  
Micro And Small Enterprises

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to investigate the inability to access affordable credit in Kenya which hinders many women entrepreneurs from either starting their own or expanding existing enterprises and capital base. The emergence of table banking groups attempts to fill the existing credit gap. Design/methodology/approach – A cross-sectional survey involving 225 randomly selected women entrepreneurs who participate in table banking groups within Nakuru Municipality was conducted. Data collection comprised a questionnaire whose reliability coefficient was 0.83 at 0.05 confidence level. Findings – Results indicated that a majority women entrepreneurs aged between 20 and 60 years with 71 per cent of them married. Further, 44 per cent had attained secondary-level education, while no illiterate entrepreneurs participated in the study. A positive increase in the number of employees, after members participated in table banking groups, was realized. Credit received from table banking influenced changes in the size of enterprises. Originality/value – The study shows that availability, affordability and accessibility of credit from table banking groups led to positive growth of women-owned enterprises.

The role of different stakeholders in destination development

2016 ◽  
Vol 71 (1) ◽  
pp. 67-76 ◽  
Author(s):  
Raija Komppula
Keyword(s):  
Life Cycle ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Historical Review ◽  
Primary Data ◽  
Sources Of Information ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Secondary Sources ◽  
Review Reports

Purpose This paper aims to highlight the crucial role of individual people, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders in the development of a tourist destination during its life cycle. The purpose is to increase our understanding of individual actors as contributors to leadership and development of tourism destinations. Design/methodology/approach An intrinsic case study of a Finnish ski resort, Ruka, is presented. The primary data consist of 16 narrative interviews. Secondary sources of information such as a history book and a historical review, reports and Web pages have been used as well. Findings The study suggests that the leadership in a destination is attributed to individuals. It is the charismatic entrepreneurs, business managers, municipality and influential politicians that may take control of the leadership at the destination. Being local enhances the sense of identity with the place and facilitates a cooperative atmosphere between actors. Finally, the roles of stakeholders and aspects of the leadership of a destination may vary along the destination life cycle. Research limitations/implications As this paper presents a single case study in a Finnish context, the findings cannot be, and are not meant to be, generalized. Rather, the findings present an example of an exception to the mainstream destination management and governance literature. Originality/value The paper fills the research gap noted by Kennedy (2014) and presents an in-depth study analysing the role of different stakeholders in destination leadership.

scholarly journals Experiential sponsorship activation at a sports mega-event: the case of Cisco at London 2012

2017 ◽  
Vol 7 (4) ◽  
pp. 404-425 ◽  
Author(s):  
Leah Gillooly ◽  
Philip Crowther ◽  
Dominic Medway
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Design Principles ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Secondary Sources ◽  
London 2012 ◽  
The Creation ◽  
Effective Use ◽  
Mega Event ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the application of event design principles in the creation and execution of effective experiential sponsorship activations (ESAs) by B2B brands and examine the challenges posed by the sponsorship context to sponsors seeking to create ESAs, with proposed potential solutions. Design/methodology/approach A case study of Cisco’s ESA activities as part of its London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games sponsorship activation is developed, drawing on interviews with key Cisco employees and secondary sources of data, both internal and external to Cisco. Findings Blending the event design principles typically associated with B2B events with those more commonly found in corporate hospitality or B2C events enables sponsors to address the cognitive needs of attendees as business representatives, while also satisfying their needs as individuals seeking more sensorial experiences. Effective use of event design principles, creative marketing and promotion, and collaboration with other sponsors allow brands to overcome constraints placed on them by the unpredictable nature of sponsorship, sponsorship rights agreements and the increased clutter in the sponsorship environment. Research limitations/implications Existing knowledge on sponsorship activation is extended, drawing on principles of event design to offer a sponsor-focused perspective on the creation and execution of effective ESAs for B2B brands. Existing thinking around B2B event design is challenged and augmented when considering its application to ESA design. Practical implications Inter-sponsor collaboration and the blending of cognitive and sensorial elements of event design are important for sponsors seeking to create and deliver effective ESAs. Originality/value The paper draws on the event design literature to appraise the execution of ESA by B2B brands within the context of event sponsorship.

scholarly journals A relational view of horizontal collaboration among micro and small enterprises: a study of the brewery sector in Wales

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Maryam Lotfi ◽  
Maneesh Kumar ◽  
Vasco Sanchez Rodrigues ◽  
Mohamed Naim ◽  
Irina Harris
Keyword(s):  
Focus Groups ◽  
Relational Theory ◽  
Small Enterprises ◽  
Small Companies ◽  
Governance Mechanisms ◽  
Relational Governance ◽  
Informal Governance ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Micro And Small Enterprises ◽  
Horizontal Collaboration

PurposeThis study aims to explore how horizontal collaboration can help small and micro enterprises within the drink sector through the relational theory lens.Design/methodology/approachThe use of qualitative research methods, including focus groups and interviews, facilitated understanding the horizontal collaboration in micro and small companies within the Welsh brewery industry. Data collection involved conducting three focus groups and 13 interviews within the Welsh brewery sector in the UK. The collaboration phenomena were explained using the three elements of relational theory: relational rents, relational capitals and relational governance.FindingsMicro and small enterprises in the drink sector use collaborative initiatives in building new capabilities to generate relational rents. In addition, relational capitals and relational governance mechanisms were identified to support the horizontal collaboration among these enterprises.Research limitations/implicationsThe focus is on only one part of the drinks industry, i.e. the brewery industry; therefore, this study could be extended to other industries within the drink sector or across manufacturing industries.Practical implicationsThe micro and small enterprises can collaborate to achieve relational rent, but this collaboration requires strong relational capitals, such as trust. These partners need to change informal governance mechanisms that already exist towards more contractual formal mechanisms.Originality/valuePrior research has largely focused on vertical collaboration, with limited studies using the relational theory lens to explicate horizontal collaboration phenomena and no previous research in the context of micro and small companies. Relational rents, relational capitals and relational governance mechanisms are studied to provide insights into an effective collaboration in this context.

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