The role of individuals, incumbents, and failure in catch-up processes: a systematic literature review

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper systematically reviews 70 peer-reviewed journal articles on catch-up processes. The role of individuals, incumbents, and failure constitute an under-investigated topic. Although these factors do not form the main focus of most investigations, they are, however, frequently mentioned as a side issue in the included studies. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of how these factors are referred to in the context of a firm’s catch-up process and thereby contributes to the understanding of catch-up processes from a management perspective. Based on the insights gathered, recommendations for further research are presented.