The many studies into the relationships between formalization and innovation have produced little but inconsistent findings. The conceptual and operational definition of the…
Abstract
The many studies into the relationships between formalization and innovation have produced little but inconsistent findings. The conceptual and operational definition of the formalization construct is proposed to be one of the reasons for these inconsistencies. It is argued that aggregate (organization‐level) measurements of formalization are inappropriate and should be replaced with department‐specific or process‐specific measurements. Second, it is argued that formalization has been defined in an inconsistent way. However, it is not just the coexistence of different definitions (and their measurements) that is problematic. The exclusion, or improper inclusion, of rule observation from the conceptualization of formalization appears to be a third fallacy. A revised definition of formalization is advanced as a solution to these problems. This definition may prove to be instrumental in determining the true effect of formalization on organizational innovation.
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Marco van Gelderen, Maryse Brand, Mirjam van Praag, Wynand Bodewes, Erik Poutsma and Anita van Gils
This paper sets out to present a detailed empirical investigation of the entrepreneurial intentions of business students. The authors employ the theory of planned behaviour (TPB)…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper sets out to present a detailed empirical investigation of the entrepreneurial intentions of business students. The authors employ the theory of planned behaviour (TPB), in which intentions are regarded as resulting from attitudes, perceived behavioural control, and subjective norms.
Design/methodology/approach
The methodology used was a replication study among samples of undergraduate students of business administration at four different universities (total n=1,225). Five operationalisations of intentions are used as well as a composite measure. Prior to the main study, qualitative research conducted at two other universities (total n=373) was held to operationalise the components of the TPB.
Findings
The results show that the two most important variables to explain entrepreneurial intentions are entrepreneurial alertness and the importance attached to financial security.
Research limitations/implications
Various research design features are used that result in better and more detailed explanations of entrepreneurial intentions.
Practical implications
Should one want to stimulate entrepreneurship in educational or training settings, then this paper's results provide guidance. Several suggestions are offered on how entrepreneurial alertness can be improved and financial security concerns can be reduced.
Originality/value
The study provides detailed and solid results on entrepreneurial intentions which are positioned in the career literature.