SME opportunity for growth or profit: what is the role of product and process improvement?
by Timothy L. Pett, James A. Wolff
International Journal of Entrepreneurial Venturing (IJEV), Vol. 1, No. 1, 2009

Abstract: The process by which small firms avail themselves of the opportunity for growth or profitability is an important issue for firm managers and researchers alike. This study develops a conceptual research model that examines SME opportunities for growth or profitability – two dimensions of performance – derive from innovation that is product improvement oriented or process improvement oriented. The innovation/performance relationship is examined within the context of environmental uncertainty and SME internationalisation actions. The findings of the study suggest that internationalisation and innovation have a positive relationship to product improvements and process improvements, while environmental uncertainty, internationalisation and product improvement have positive relationships with growth as a performance dimension. Indeed opportunity for growth seems to be a more important dimension for SMEs in the sample.

Online publication date: Fri, 13-Mar-2009

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