Export Consortia in Developing Countries | springerprofessional.de

Springer Professional

nach oben

2011 | Buch

Kapitel lesen Erstes Kapitel lesen

Export Consortia in Developing Countries

Successful Management of Cooperation Among SMEs

verfasst von: Fabio Antoldi, Daniele Cerrato, Donatella Depperu

Verlag: Springer Berlin Heidelberg

Enthalten in: Springer Professional "Wirtschaft+Technik" , Springer Professional "Wirtschaft"

Einloggen, um Zugang zu erhalten

Über dieses Buch

The book analyzes export consortia from the strategic management perspective. It builds on an empirical analysis of nine export consortia promoted by UNIDO in developing countries between 2004 and 2007. The book is based heavily on actual export consortium experiences, in order to combine a rigorous research approach with a more pragmatic view of the phenomenon. The material will be of interest to a variety of readers. Scholars in the field of management represent the authors' primary target. The book includes a literature review which combines the topics of SME internationalization, strategic networks, and the issues which relate specifically to SME alliances in the form of export consortia. Entrepreneurs and executives will find useful business models and management tools for the successful design and implementation of export consortia. Insights into the functioning of export consortia may also be of interest to policy-makers and institutions that develop support programs for the growth of SMEs in developing countries.

Anzeige

Inhaltsverzeichnis

Frontmatter

1. Internationalization of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises

Abstract

The international activities of small firms are constrained by several barriers, including limited resources and capabilities to invest in exploiting growth opportunities abroad. This is particularly true of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in developing countries, which are characterized by fewer managerial resources, experience and support services compared to their counterparts in developed countries.

In this chapter we provide an overview of the different research streams that have addressed this issue in relation to SME internationalization. Building on a review of export literature and studies on SME internationalization, we discuss the factors affecting the international development of SMEs as well as the barriers which block or hinder them from initiating or increasing their export activities. We then focus on SMEs in developing countries. Empirical evidence from modern global manufacturing systems and increasing economic integration shows that the internationalization pathways of SMEs from developing countries may be more heterogeneous than those assumed by traditional models, which were identified in the context of mature developed economies.

Fabio Antoldi, Daniele Cerrato, Donatella Depperu

2. Strategic Networks, Trust and the Competitive Advantage of SMEs

Abstract

Network-based research shows that the internationalization process of firms is largely driven by network relationships. Joining a network can be even more important for SMEs, as they face a variety of internal constraints due mainly to the lack of financial and managerial resources.

In this chapter we introduce the main concepts related to interfirm networks and focus on the strategic issues involved in building a network of SMEs. After defining strategic networks and presenting the different types, we analyze how a network may become an additional source of competitive advantage for the small firms entering into it. We then discuss to what extent trust among entrepreneurs is able to consolidate and ensure the continuity of the network. Finally, we analyze the crucial role that third parties, acting as ‘network facilitators’, may play in promoting and strengthening relationships among entrepreneurs.

Fabio Antoldi, Daniele Cerrato, Donatella Depperu

3. Export Consortia: Types and Characteristics

Abstract

Export consortia are a particular form of inter-firm network dedicated to fostering the internationalization of SMEs. Forming horizontal ties with other domestic partners may enable small firms to solve a variety of export problems including organizational and financial issues, an inadequate or incomplete value proposition, and a lack of information about foreign markets. Export consortia can be classified on the basis of various factors, such as scope, objectives, sectors, types of relationship between partners, location of partners, size and number of partners

In this chapter, we present different types of export consortia, describing their features as well as highlighting their advantages and disadvantages compared to other kinds of network. From a dynamic perspective, the possible life-cycle of a consortium is also described. Data on the diffusion of export consortia are also presented, as well as a description of the UNIDO programme to assist developing countries and transition economies in establishing export consortia.

Fabio Antoldi, Daniele Cerrato, Donatella Depperu

4. Empirical Analysis of Nine Export Consortia of SMEs in Morocco, Tunisia, Peru and Uruguay

Abstract

In this chapter we present the empirical evidence which forms the basis of this book. Our analysis covers nine export consortia supported by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in developing countries between 2004 and 2007: four in Peru, three in Morocco, and one each in Tunisia and Uruguay.

After detailing the objectives and methodology of the empirical investigation, we present a concise version of the nine case histories compiled during the research in order to describe the main features of each of the export consortia analyzed: origins, membership, strategies and goals, governance structures, organization and management systems, and target markets.

Fabio Antoldi, Daniele Cerrato, Donatella Depperu

5. The Management of Export Consortia: A Pragmatic Approach

Abstract

A specific approach is necessary in order to understand the management issues of export consortia as they possess particular characteristics which differentiate them from other types of network. Building on the nine case studies presented in Chapter 4, we develop a framework for analyzing the management of export consortia. We also describe certain strategic management tools that are able to assist consortium executives in formulating and implementing effective strategies as well as monitoring performance. Our framework focuses on six activities related to the setting-up and management of export consortia: managing the strategic alignment of member firms; formulating consortium strategy; designing the organizational structure; leveraging on strategic resources and competences; enforcing corporate governance and leadership; measuring consortium performance.

Fabio Antoldi, Daniele Cerrato, Donatella Depperu

6. Conclusions

Abstract

In this book we have shed light on the role of export consortia and the key factors affecting successful cooperation among SMEs. The empirical analysis of nine export consortia promoted by UNIDO in Morocco, Tunisia, Peru and Uruguay between 2004 and 2007 shows that export consortia can be effective vehicles in assisting SMEs to overcome major barriers to international expansion. Although the consortia covered by our analysis are still in the initial stages of their life-cycle, empirical evidence confirms that they can play an important role in fostering the success of SMEs in developing countries and, as a result, the international competitiveness of these countries.

Fabio Antoldi, Daniele Cerrato, Donatella Depperu

Titel: Export Consortia in Developing Countries
verfasst von: Fabio Antoldi
Daniele Cerrato
Donatella Depperu
Copyright-Jahr: 2011
Verlag: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Electronic ISBN: 978-3-642-24879-5
Print ISBN: 978-3-642-24878-8
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-24879-5

Weitere Formate
Fachgebiete
Bücher
Zeitschriften
Themenseiten
Jetzt Einzelzugang starten
Zugang für Unternehmen
Referenzkunden
SLX-Digitalkonferenz: Zukunftswerkstatt 2024