Strategies for Growth in SMEs explores for the first time the role of information and information systems (IS) concepts in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Most IS research focuses on large firms, yet the majority of firms in most economies are SMEs. The book considers the applicability of IS theory and practice to SMEs and develops new theories that are relevant to these firms.Composed of 6 sections, it covers, amongst other things; the nature of SMEs, the background to IS, and SMEs' use of IS, issues of IS strategy and planning in SMEs, the way that firms can transform through use of IS, evaluation, IS flexibility, business process re-engineering, resource-based strategy and knowledge management, the appropriateness of existing theories and the development of new models to address SME-specific issues. The final section of the book reviews the learning in the previous chapters and poses future agendas for research.Written by two of the leading figures in the field, this book will be essential reading for researchers in IS and SMEs, students on entrepreneurship or IS courses, and others that focus on SMEs. * A unique text relating IS theory to SMEs* Benefit from the authors' years of experience in the field* Familiarise yourself with this growth area for research and courses

This paper investigates the economic rationale for intervention in support of small and medium scale enterprises, on both theoretical and empirical grounds. It argues that the justification for SME interventions lies in market and institutional failures that bias the size distribution of firms, rather than on any inherent economic benefits provided by small firms. The role of the state is mainly to provide an enabling business environment that opens access to markets and reduces policy-induced biases against small firms. Governments can accelerate the development of markets for financial and non-financial services suited to SMEs by promoting innovation in products and delivery mechanisms, and by building institutional capacity. Improving the development impact of SME strategies will require much more attention to the monitoring and evaluation of intervention outcomes.

Internationalization is a strategic issue for companies as it is today the central axis for the development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Market expansion and the growing importance of emerging markets offer new development opportunities for SMEs to use innovative strategies - such as head-deck strategies - to effectively penetrate these markets. This book focuses on understanding these new strategies. Why do SMEs use head-of-bridge strategies in order to internationalize? How do they deploy such strategies abroad? Based on the example of five manufacturing SMEs, which are at different stages of internationalization, this book highlights the main motivations, stages of deployment but also difficulties encountered in this direction. This book is a tool for assessing potential locations and provide managers with a new alternative in terms of internationalization, enabling rapid identification of key stakeholders, adapting their international development plan and anticipating potential pitfalls.

Master's Thesis from the year 2011 in the subject Business economics - Offline Marketing and Online Marketing, grade: 12 (Distinction), , course: Strategic Business Communication, language: English, abstract: Abstract It is widely recognized that Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises play a significant role in the economic vitality of local and national economies in Denmark. Over the years, these sectors are faced with an increasingly unstable marketplace and stiff competition from large firms. It is believed that the advancement of internet and its related communication technologies have the ability to give these firms the potential advantage to reach wider geographical markets and compete with larger organizations for customers’ attraction, market share, and sustainable growth. As a result, the Danish government has over the years collaborated with industry and commercial associations to bolster the integration of Information Technology and diffusion of e-commerce among SMEs. This thesis used quantitative survey questionnaire and qualitative interview approaches to assess how SMEs in Denmark are using the internet as a business strategy to enhance growth and sustainability. In accordance with the theoretical model developed by synthesizing existing internet adoption and business growth models, three key determinants such as: the level of internet adoption, growth strategy, and competitive environment were investigated. Result indicates that SMEs have a considerable integration of internet particularly at the lower level which includes e-mail and website. While more than half of the firms who have fully integrated internet as part of their growth strategy have experienced exponential growth by developing new product and reaching new markets. Competitively, these firms are also able to offer high and unique value of proposition mainly through niches.

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected every aspect of the modern world, and its impact is felt by all. The pandemic particularly has had a large impact on businesses as they were forced to close, supply chains were disrupted, and new health and safety precautions were adopted. As such, many businesses, especially small businesses, were faced with losses they could not afford. Governments and stakeholders across the world have thus needed to formulate various strategies and interventions to mitigate the negative consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly as they relate to small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The Handbook of Research on Strategies and Interventions to Mitigate COVID-19 Impact on SMEs is a comprehensive reference source that encapsulates the overall effect of COVID-19 on SMEs and a variety of strategies to overcome the negative effects and create more sustainable policies and organizations moving forward. The book offers a thorough overview of interventions and tactics to help organizations, entrepreneurs, and institutions of higher learning overcome the negative impact of COVID-19 while preparing policies for a more effective post-pandemic world. Covering topics that include sustainable practices for development, interventions to lessen the impact of COVID-19, and psychological resilience for SME employees, this book is Ideal for entrepreneurs, managers, executives, small businesses, family firms, academicians, scholar-practitioners, policymakers, researchers, and students.

Master's Thesis from the year 2011 in the subject Business economics - Marketing, Corporate Communication, CRM, Market Research, Social Media, grade: 12 (Distinction), course: Strategic Business Communication, language: English, abstract: Abstract It is widely recognized that Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises play a significant role in the economic vitality of local and national economies in Denmark. Over the years, these sectors are faced with an increasingly unstable marketplace and stiff competition from large firms. It is believed that the advancement of internet and its related communication technologies have the ability to give these firms the potential advantage to reach wider geographical markets and compete with larger organizations for customers' attraction, market share, and sustainable growth. As a result, the Danish government has over the years collaborated with industry and commercial associations to bolster the integration of Information Technology and diffusion of e-commerce among SMEs. This thesis used quantitative survey questionnaire and qualitative interview approaches to assess how SMEs in Denmark are using the internet as a business strategy to enhance growth and sustainability. In accordance with the theoretical model developed by synthesizing existing internet adoption and business growth models, three key determinants such as: the level of internet adoption, growth strategy, and competitive environment were investigated. Result indicates that SMEs have a considerable integration of internet particularly at the lower level which includes e-mail and website. While more than half of the firms who have fully integrated internet as part of their growth strategy have experienced exponential growth by developing new product and reaching new markets. Competitively, these firms are also able to offer high and unique value of proposition mainly through niches.

Smaller companies are abundant in the business realm and outnumber large companies by a wide margin. To maintain a competitive edge against other businesses, companies must ensure the most effective strategies and procedures are in place. This is particularly critical in smaller business environments that have fewer resources. Start-Ups and SMEs: Concepts, Methodologies, Tools, and Applications is a vital reference source that examines the strategies and concepts that will assist small and medium-sized enterprises to achieve competitiveness. It also explores the latest advances and developments for creating a system of shared values and beliefs in small business environments. Highlighting a range of topics such as entrepreneurship, innovative behavior, and organizational sustainability, this multi-volume book is ideally designed for entrepreneurs, business managers, executives, managing directors, academicians, business professionals, researchers, and graduate-level students.