Intermediary Organization and Collaboration Platform for SMEs

Abstract

Due to globalization and the ever-changing business environment, Small and Medium Size Enterprises (SME) need to be efficient and competitive in order to survive. Interfirm collaboration becomes helpful to achieve the company’s target. However, most of the SMEs are not able to collaborate effectively. This article, therefore, focuses on the underlying factors that affect SMEs interfirm collaboration while having in mind the role of intermediary organization and collaboration platforms play. A mixed strategy research method that includes qualitative and quantitative approach is used. The theoretical framework analyses different type of interfirm collaboration, intermediary organization and collaboration platforms. Based on the theoretical model of interfirm collaboration, the results indicate the need for SMEs in that regard based on the analysis of a survey. They consider collaboration as an important part of their business. However, their biggest problems remain the lack of resources, inability to find a suitable partner and adequate digital tools.