Title: Fit as based on the expected strategy: evidence from small and middle-sized firms

Authors: Erkki K. Laitinen

Addresses: Department of Accounting and Finance, University of Vaasa, PO 700, Vaasa 65101, Finland

Abstract: This article introduces a concept of fit based on expected strategy. Expected strategy is a strategy expected to emerge conditionally on organisational characteristics. Fit is defined as correspondence between expected and emerged strategies. It is illustrated by the Miles and Snow typology. Evidence is drawn from 106 Finnish firms. Twenty organisational variables are extracted by factor analysis. Expected strategy is drawn by multinomial logistic analysis. Difference between expected and emerged strategy types refers to lack of fit. Cases with largest differences are analysed to show how it affects performance. Evidence shows that lack of fit may play key role in success.

Keywords: enterprise development; expected strategy; Finnish firms; strategy fit; Miles and Snow typology; multinomial logistic analysis; organisational characteristics; survey; small and medium-sized enterprises; SMEs; Finland.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMED.2009.022630

International Journal of Management and Enterprise Development, 2009 Vol.6 No.2, pp.240 - 260

Published online: 19 Jan 2009 *

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