A holistic and integrated approach to theorizing strategic alliances of small and medium-sized enterprises
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to seek to deliver a new and holistic insight on small- and medium-sized enterprise (SME) strategic alliances in terms of the precursor, motivations, selection, governance structure, outcomes and challenges of strategic alliances of SMEs and the relationships between them.
Design/methodology/approach
To better understand the entire process of SME strategic alliances, the author takes a novel approach which is based on a combined perspective of entrepreneurship and innovation, resource-based theory, and social network theory.
Findings
The author develops a theoretical model which seeks to conceptualize the antecedents, process, and outcomes of strategic alliances of SMEs and the relationships between them.
Research limitations/implications
The conceptual framework provides the directions for future empirical testing and further theoretical research.
Practical implications
This study may help managers better understand the importance of an integrated approach to entrepreneurship and innovation, and the process and outcomes of enhancing their entrepreneurship and innovation capacities through strategic alliances.
Originality/value
To the author's knowledge, this study is the first of its kind that takes a holistic and integrated approach to study SME strategic alliances.
Keywords
Citation
Zhao, F. (2014), "A holistic and integrated approach to theorizing strategic alliances of small and medium-sized enterprises", Business Process Management Journal, Vol. 20 No. 6, pp. 887-905. https://doi.org/10.1108/BPMJ-01-2013-0004
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2014, Emerald Group Publishing Limited