Credit crunch
Purpose Reviews the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoints practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings One of the key themes to emerge from the globalization of business has been the increase in symbiotic relationships between large firms and small-to-medium sized enterprises (SMEs). These relationships are often characterized a little like that of a shark and the pilot fish, where the SME follows the shark dangerously close by, but is seen as safe as it performs a valuable service to the shark, eating the parasites that the shark attracts due to its eating habits. This symbiosis is commonly regarded as a positive outcome for the SME, as it feels protected by its larger partner, while being able to feed off the leftovers its larger appetite generates. Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.