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Drivers of internationalization success: a conjoint choice experiment on German SME managers

  • S. Kraus
  • , C. Mitter
  • , F. Eggers
  • , P. Stieg
  • University of Liechtenstein
  • University of Groningen

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Internationalization is a common growth strategy for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). However, SMEs face several challenges within the internationalization process. As SMEs are characterized by limited resources, managers are constantly involved in a decision-making process concerning the allocation of the SMEs’ resources. Therefore, internationalization can be understood as a complex, multidimensional decision process. Based on a set of 2244 internationalization decisions made by German SME managers, the present study examines how eight strategic and structural factors drive the perceived international success of SMEs. When applying conjoint choice analysis, the results suggest that especially equity financing in the internationalization process, an appropriate market selection as well as proactive motives, and a long-term scope can drive SMEs’ international success. Moreover, it becomes evident that strategic factors are more relevant for successful internationalization than structural factors. © 2016, Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)691-716
Number of pages26
JournalRev. Manage. Sci.
Volume11
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2017

Keywords

  • Choice experiment
  • Conjoint analysis
  • International success
  • Internationalization
  • SME

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