Foreign network relationships and the internationalisation of small knowledge-intensive firms

Abstract

This paper discusses the role of network relationships in the internationalisation of small knowledge-intensive firms (SKIFs) by specifically highlighting their foreign, spatially scattered network relationships, which can be a significant resource. Two issues are dealt with: how foreign network relationships are developed and the impact they have on the internationalisation of SKIFs. This paper focuses on the Indian software industry and cites the example of four case-firms in Bangalore. Three effects of foreign network relationships on the internationalisation of SKIFs, viz. opportunities, information and advice, are noted. Managerial implications include the importance of leveraging network relationships proactively, and with discernment.