Title: A performance measurement framework for internationalisation of small and medium enterprises

Authors: Harinder Singh, Jaideep Motwani, Jared English

Addresses: Grand Valley State University, 401 W. Fulton, Grand Rapids, MI 49504, USA. ' Grand Valley State University, 401 W. Fulton, Grand Rapids, MI 49504, USA. ' Grand Valley State University, Pacific Resource International, 401 W. Fulton, Grand Rapids, MI 49504, USA

Abstract: Strategic and operational issues and performance measures in the internationalisation process of small and medium enterprises (SME) are analysed. We incorporate recent case studies of specific SME experience, the empirical results on the determinants of foreign direct investment (FDI) flows, and the general management strategy literature to develop an integrated framework that includes production, distribution, and location considerations and performance measures. In order to provide a context for analysis and to demonstrate growth opportunities, foreign collaboration in China is employed as an illustration. Within the context of a broad framework, several key issues such as the determinants of organisational learning, the importance of networking, the mode of entry, the overall flexibility, and the sustainability of the internationalisation process are analysed.

Keywords: China; foreign direct investment; FDI; internationalisation; performance measurement; small and medium-sized enterprises; SMEs; foreign collaboration; organisational learning; networking; mode of entry; flexibility; sustainability.

DOI: 10.1504/IJPQM.2009.021869

International Journal of Productivity and Quality Management, 2009 Vol.4 No.1, pp.20 - 38

Published online: 07 Dec 2008 *

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