دانلود رایگان مقاله طرح اصلی بین المللی سازی SME رویکرد گشتالتی

ABSTRACT

Building on the recognition of the variety of aspects associated with international expansion, we present a framework for identifying different archetypes of firm internationalization. Our model is based on six indicators: internationalization from the demand side, resources located abroad, geographical scope, international orientation, internationalization of the business network, and financial internationalization. Drawing from data on 63 Italian SMEs, four archetypes of internationalization strategy are identified through a cluster analysis: ‘marketer’, ‘investor’, ‘networker’, and ‘weak internationalizer’. This study offers a methodological contribution to the analysis of firm-level internationalization, grounded in configurational theory, which defines strategies as multidimensional archetypes. We also discuss potential directions for future research.

Conclusions, implications for practitioners and research directions

We have developed a framework for analysing firm-level internationalization, building on the consideration of the multiple variables associated with the foreign expansion. Our framework allows for the identification of distinct configurations or archetypes resulting from specific combinations of multiple internationalization dimensions. Such an approach is grounded in configurational theory, wherein strategies are identified as multidimensional archetypes. As Lim et al. (2006) note, a configurational approach is not only tremendously relevant in terms of the richness of description but is also useful to stimulating scholars and managers to think about the multifaceted nature of international strategy. Our contribution is primarily methodological. The purpose of this framework, like any classification scheme, could be assisting future scholars ‘‘in identifying the common and disparate elements of alternative theories and in clarifying the value of specific contributions’’ (Aggarwal et al., 2011, p. 567). In addition, it could help scholars to explore and shed light on specific patterns of firm internationalization and identify areas that need additional theory or empirical evidence.