Medium-sized Enterprises Research Articles

Language Operative Capacity in Small and Medium-sized Enterprises

AbstractLanguage-related IB research predominantly targets large MNCs, often overlooking the challenges that internationalizing SMEs face in effectively utilizing their limited language resources. To address this gap and assist SMEs in overcoming their unique language challenges, we develop a scale for language operative capacity (LOC), which measures a firm’s capacity to deploy language resources most productively throughout its global operations. We validate this instrument with data from 417 SMEs and examine its impact on two critical internationalization metrics: export performance and international networking capability. Our study makes three key contributions to language-related IB research and capacity research. First, we provide a comprehensive and robust LOC instrument, incorporating distinctions between potential and realized capacity from the capacity literature. Second, we offer a deeper understanding of language as a multi-level phenomenon by highlighting the interaction between individual-level language skills and organizational-level capacities. Third, we extend the scarce language-related IB research on SMEs by offering a nuanced understanding of LOC as a strategic resource, by validating the LOC instrument in the context of internationalizing SMEs, and by demonstrating its explanatory power for essential internationalization metrics. Additionally, our research provides SMEs with an actionable tool to assess their linguistic capacities, develop their language resources and optimize the use of these language resources in international operations.

Blockchain for sustainable supply chains: A systematic review and framework for SME implementation

This paper presents a systematic review of the role of blockchain technology in fostering sustainable supply chains, with a particular emphasis on its implementation for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The objective is to explore how blockchain can address critical challenges such as transparency, traceability, and accountability, thereby contributing to more sustainable and ethical supply chain practices. Through an extensive literature review, this study examines various blockchain applications and their potential to enhance sustainability by reducing inefficiencies, ensuring compliance with environmental standards, and mitigating risks related to unethical practices. The research methodology involved a comprehensive analysis of peer-reviewed articles, case studies, and industry reports to identify the benefits and barriers of blockchain adoption in supply chains. Key findings suggest that while blockchain can significantly enhance transparency and sustainability, SMEs face unique challenges in terms of technological adoption, cost implications, and scalability. Additionally, the paper proposes a framework tailored to SME needs, outlining practical steps for blockchain implementation, including initial investment strategies, stakeholder collaboration, and integration with existing technologies. The study concludes that blockchain holds great potential for advancing sustainable supply chains, but its adoption by SMEs requires a strategic approach that addresses financial, technical, and operational barriers. This framework provides a roadmap for SMEs aiming to leverage blockchain technology to achieve sustainability goals, thus contributing to long-term business competitiveness and compliance with global sustainability standards.

Digital Business Transformation of Malaysian Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises: A Review on Digital Leadership and Digital Culture

Digital Business Transformation of Malaysian Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises: A Review on Digital Leadership and Digital Culture

Data assetization and capital market information efficiency: evidence from Hidden Champion SMEs in China

Data assets serve functions such as value preservation and appreciation, financing, and value creation. They contain extensive information about enterprises’ operational status and future development prospects, providing significant references for external investors’ decision-making and greatly impacting the information efficiency in capital market. This study examines the correlation between data assetization and capital market information efficiency, along with the mechanisms and influencing factors involved. We select a sample of Chinese Hidden Champion small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from 2011 to 2021, utilize text analysis methods to build a data assets dictionary, and extract keywords from corporate annual reports to depict the level of data assetization. The research results indicate that data assetization significantly enhances the information efficiency of capital market, specifically reducing stock price synchronicity and stock price delay. By categorizing data assets into own-use data assets and transactional data assets, we find that both types can improve the information efficiency of the capital market. Mechanism analysis reveals that enterprise data assetization can enhance the information efficiency of capital market by alleviating corporate financing constraints and improving forward-looking information disclosure. Factors analysis demonstrates that digital infrastructure and data circulation transactions can strengthen the enhancement effect of data assetization on the information efficiency of capital market. This study enriches the research outcomes in the micro-research field of data assets, providing valuable insights for promoting the digital transformation of Hidden Champion SMEs and the high-quality development of capital market.

Customer journey mapping framework for SMES: Enhancing customer satisfaction and business growth

Customer journey mapping (CJM) is an essential tool for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to understand and optimize their interactions with customers, thereby driving satisfaction and business growth. This review outlines a customer journey mapping framework designed specifically for SMEs, aiming to enhance customer experiences through a structured approach to identifying key touchpoints, pain points, and opportunities for improvement across the customer lifecycle. The proposed framework involves systematically mapping out every stage of the customer journey, from initial awareness to post-purchase interactions, highlighting moments that significantly impact customer satisfaction. By leveraging customer data, feedback, and analytics, SMEs can gain valuable insights into customer behavior, motivations, and preferences. This framework emphasizes the importance of personalization, using data to tailor the customer experience and foster deeper connections. Additionally, the framework integrates feedback loops, allowing SMEs to continuously gather and analyze real-time customer data. This iterative process helps businesses to proactively identify emerging trends, address customer concerns, and adapt to evolving market demands. By aligning customer needs with business objectives, SMEs can create more targeted marketing campaigns, improve product or service offerings, and enhance customer retention strategies. The implementation of this customer journey mapping framework can lead to several key benefits for SMEs, including improved customer satisfaction, increased brand loyalty, and greater operational efficiency. It also enables SMEs to compete more effectively in their markets by delivering personalized and seamless customer experiences. The framework supports scalability, allowing SMEs to refine their customer engagement strategies as their businesses grow. In conclusion, the customer journey mapping framework serves as a critical tool for SMEs looking to enhance customer satisfaction and drive sustainable business growth. By focusing on data-driven insights and continuous improvement, SMEs can deliver more value to customers, strengthen brand loyalty, and achieve long-term success.

Inovasi Sistem Kontrol Elektronik Berbasis Arduino untuk Proses Penekanan Adonan Kue Tradisional

The aging of Traditional production of Onthok Yuyu, a local delicacy, encountered challenges in efficiency and consistency due to its manual process, which affected the product's uniformity and overall productivity. This study aimed to design and implement an automated dough-cutting system using an Arduino Uno-based controller combined with Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) to address these issues. The system used an Arduino Uno to manage motor speed and cutting precision, utilizing a programmable keypad for setting time intervals and controlling dough compression and cutting stages. The experimental setup included a DC motor to drive the cutting blades, a conveyor motor, and a display for real-time process monitoring.Key findings revealed that the automated system achieved consistent cutting lengths with minimal variance, improving both the efficiency and reliability of the production process compared to traditional methods. The system effectively managed motor speed within specified parameters, resulting in uniform dough portions while reducing manual labor. Additionally, the study showed that the Arduino-controlled setup maintained operational stability under various loads, making it adaptable for small-scale production.This research demonstrated the potential for Arduino-based automation to enhance production quality in traditional food processing. It offers implications for similar small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) aiming to modernize processes, reduce dependency on manual labor, and achieve more consistent output. Future studies are recommended to explore further optimization in system scalability and adaptability for diverse product types

Intellectual property and exit strategies among SMEs: A scoping review and framework

While studies have focused on the role of intellectual property (IP) strategies for growth at the macro and micro levels, there remains a notable gap in comprehensively understanding the nexus between IP and exit strategies. This scoping review examines the link between firms' IP and exit strategies. It takes a particular interest in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), focusing on mergers and acquisitions. This study synthesizes the literature on the role that IP strategies play in smaller firms' exit strategies and the distinctive challenges they face, proposing a comprehensive framework for understanding these dynamics. It further highlights a persistent gap in the literature on the influence of IP awareness on SMEs' exit strategies. Using established data sources and multiple filter procedures, the search yielded 87 relevant articles. Only a few studies examine the roles of IP awareness and IP strategy within business strategies. Studies explicitly researching the influence of IP strategies on exit strategies remain particularly scarce. The findings underscore the importance of integrating IP awareness and IP strategy more thoroughly into management theory and practice to enhance SMEs’ competitive advantage and facilitate successful exits.

Overcoming Financial Constraints on Firm Innovation: The Role of R&D Human Capital

This paper examines how R&D human capital can mitigate the negative effects of financing constraints on firm innovation, using survey data from 4000 South Korean manufacturing firms. The results confirm that financing constraints are generally associated with lower levels of product innovation. However, firms with stronger R&D human capital—measured by higher education levels and a larger proportion of R&D employees—are better able to overcome these financial barriers. Moreover, the positive moderating effect of R&D human capital is significantly enhanced in firms with an entrepreneurial culture, which supports risk-taking and innovation. These findings underscore the importance of investing in intangible assets, such as human capital and fostering a culture of entrepreneurship to sustain innovation during periods of financial distress. Policymakers should consider expanding financial support for R&D activities, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that face higher costs of capital. This study contributes to the literature by using direct measures of financial constraints and highlighting the role of human capital in innovation, especially in financially constrained environments.

Attitude towards the profession, emotional exhaustion, cynicism, and intention to abandon tourism SMEs as an entrepreneur: a conditional mediation model

ABSTRACT While small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are fundamental to the tourism industry, the literature analysing those that fail is scarce. The present study addresses the reasons by examining how two dimensions of burnout (emotional exhaustion and cynicism) and attitude towards being an entrepreneur influence the intention of entrepreneurs to leave their businesses. It also demonstrates the role of conditional mediation, where attitude towards being an entrepreneur moderates the mediation of cynicism in the relationship between emotional exhaustion and intention to abandon one’s business. The sample comprised 231 SME entrepreneurs, and the data were analysed using tri-level approach: partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM); necessary condition analysis (NCA); and artificial neural networks (ANN). The results confirm the importance of the variables above in the participants’ intention to abandon one’s business.

AI-driven business analytics for SMES: Unlocking value through predictive and prescriptive analytic

Introduction: With an emphasis on predictive and prescriptive analytics, this study examines the revolutionary implications of AI-driven analytics on small and medium-sized organizations (SMEs). SMEs play a crucial role in the global economy and require advanced solutions to improve decision-making and operational efficiency. The research aims to explore how AI-powered analytics, particularly in predictive and prescriptive forms, can add value to SMEs by enhancing demand forecasting, customer behavior insights, and financial planning. To determine how AI-driven analytics might affect SMEs, a thorough assessment of the literature was undertaken. The study reveals that SMEs implementing predictive analytics experience notable improvements in areas such as inventory management, revenue generation, and overall operational efficiency. Furthermore, businesses that leverage prescriptive analytics benefit from optimized resource allocation, enhanced marketing strategies, and better risk management practices. These findings highlight the potential for AI to overcome key challenges faced by SMEs, including budget constraints and limited data availability. AI-driven analytics can provide valuable insights that allow SMEs to streamline operations and foster growth. With future trends pointing to greater accessibility and developments in machine learning, natural language processing, and the integration of AI with other cutting-edge technologies, like blockchain, AI-powered analytics offers substantial prospects for small and medium-sized enterprises.

IMPROVING MARKETING PERFORMANCE THROUGH BUSINESS NETWORKS AND ECO BRAND RESONANCE CAPABILITY

This study aims to analyze the influence of business networks on eco brand resonance capability. It examines the impact of business networks and eco brand resonance capability on product competitive advantage, and the effect of product competitive advantage on marketing performance. The research sample consists of 110 respondents from small and medium-sized batik enterprises in Central Java. The analysis tool used is SEM AMOS version 21. The findings indicate that the stronger the business networks, the higher the eco brand resonance capability; the stronger the business networks and eco brand resonance capability, the greater the product competitive advantage; and the higher the product competitive advantage, the better the marketing performance. KEYWORDS: business network; eco brand resonance capability; product competitive advantage; marketing performance.

Study on Digital Transformation Strategy of Small and medium-sized Enterprises in China

The digital wave has swept the world and the industrial change has accelerated. As an important part of the national economy, small and medium-sized enterprises must conform to the trend of The Times and seek digital transformation and high-quality development. This paper deeply analyzes the internal and external environment of small and medium-sized enterprises digital transformation and examines the issues and challenges posed by their digital transformation. At last, some transformation strategies are put forward. It is found that the key factors restricting the high-quality development of small and medium-sized enterprises are the shortage of funds, the lack of talent, the lack of technical ability, and the backward management system. To solve the problems, it is urgent to strengthen the construction of financing channels, improve the talent training mechanism, enhance the ability of technological innovation, and promote management innovation and upgrading, to promote the high-quality development of medium-sized enterprises.

On the road to HR legitimacy in SMEs: the signalling power of HR metrics

In this study, we examine why and how HR metrics can help increase the legitimacy of the HR function in organizations. Drawing on signalling theory, we conceptualize HR metrics as a communicational tool that signals the value of the HR function’s activities and contributions. We apprehend HR legitimacy through two key concepts: the strength of the HRM system and the underlying philosophies, or raison d’être, attributed to the HR function, namely maximizing business performance and promoting employee well-being. Testing our model among a sample of 218 HR professionals in Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), we find that the relationships between HR metrics and HR philosophies are partially mediated by HRM strength. These results suggest that HR professionals can tap into the signalling power of HR metrics to enhance the legitimacy of the HR function by fostering shared perceptions that HR goals, activities, and contributions are valuable and aligned with the interests of both management and employees. This suggests that the use of HR metrics and analytics can help HR functions pursue a pluralist philosophy that seeks to enhance mutuality in employment relationships. This research is among the first to use a quantitative design to capture HR legitimacy.

Research and Development on an Internet Q and A Platform for Corporate Innovation and Management

This paper analyses and develops an online platform for innovation and management cooperation that benefits small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through enhanced cooperation and support. Helping SMEs to adapt to market changes and promote internal improvements. With limited access to information and cutting-edge technologies, SMEs often struggle to solve identified problems. We use a web-based platform to help SMEs find problems and solutions. Through market analyses and BCG Matrix analyses we delved into the feasibility of the platform as well as developed innovative features.

Development of Madura Batik MSME HR as a Catalyst for Green Entrepreneurship in Indonesia

The purpose of this study is to look at how human resource (HR) development in Batik Madura micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) might act as a catalyst for green entrepreneurship in Indonesia. Green entrepreneurship is becoming the primary emphasis for decreasing negative environmental consequences while enhancing competitiveness in a global market that is more concerned with sustainability. HR plays a crucial role in implementing technical innovation and environmentally sustainable industrial processes. This study takes a qualitative method, with in-depth interviews with the owners, managers, and employees of MSME Batik Madura, as well as a literature analysis on green entrepreneurship.According to the study's findings, sustainable human resource development through training and education that emphasizes sustainability can boost productivity and efficiency in batik manufacturing. Furthermore, human resources with environmental consciousness and digital marketing abilities help Madurese batik products compete more effectively in national and international marketplaces. This study promotes collaboration among government, academics, and industry stakeholders to strengthen the development of human resources for Madura Batik MSMEs, which is the primary pillar in the transition to green entrepreneurship.

A Comparative Analysis of Ethnic Networks and Internationalization of Latin American Agri-SMEs: The Case of Argentina, Brazil, and Chile

This paper investigates the key drivers influencing the internationalization of agricultural small and medium-sized enterprises (agri-SMEs) in Latin America, with a particular emphasis on the role of social and ethnic networks. Focusing on Argentina, Brazil, and Chile—three of the region’s largest agricultural economies—this study examines how familial and cultural connections between descendants of European immigrants and European entrepreneurs facilitate the global expansion of agri-SMEs. Using a cross-sectional quantitative analysis, data from agri-SME managers reveal the importance of these networks in reducing market entry barriers by providing insider knowledge of foreign markets, regulatory conditions, and potential business partnerships. The findings demonstrate that ethnic networks significantly reduce market entry barriers, providing Latin American agri-SMEs access to essential insider knowledge on foreign markets and local regulations, thereby facilitating internationalization. Additionally, agri-SMEs that leverage these networks are better positioned to meet growing global demands for sustainable, traceable food products, gaining a competitive advantage in international markets. The strength and frequency of interactions within ethnic networks are positively correlated with the degree of internationalization, highlighting the importance of social capital in overcoming operational challenges. This paper contributes to the literature by highlighting the underexplored role of ethnic networks in shaping the international marketing strategies of agricultural firms and their capacity to adapt to evolving consumer behaviors. The study offers practical insights for supporting the global integration of agri-SMEs in Latin America, addressing both operational challenges and the increasing need for sustainable food production practices.

Comparable yet distinct: a systematic review of social and small and medium-sized enterprises growth trajectories

Purpose This study aims to expand the concept of business growth by incorporating sustainability demands, particularly in the context of the Anthropocene era. It explores the growth trajectories of social enterprises (SEs) and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), examining how SEs integrate social and environmental objectives into their growth process. Through a systematic literature review (SLR), this study compares these approaches with traditional SME growth paradigms, highlighting the need for a holistic understanding of business growth that addresses contemporary socioenvironmental challenges. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative SLR was conducted, using a structured search algorithm to identify and evaluate research on growth and scaling in SMEs and SEs. The search of the Web of Science database with specific growth-related keywords yielded 5,362 articles, which were narrowed to 194 after filtering by journal relevance. Content analysis, guided by an inductively developed codebook, examined growth definitions, operationalizations, and methodologies. This paper focused on key growth dimensions (economic, social and environmental) and identified whether growth was addressed as an outcome or process, along with its enablers and barriers. Findings While there are areas of intersection between the literatures, the findings reveal that traditional SME growth frameworks do not entirely align with SEs growth conception and management. Furthermore, SE’s growth barriers and facilitators, as well as growth trajectories more broadly, emerge as distinct from those of traditional SMEs. The results distill insights from SE growth paths that can be valuable for traditional SME managers, particularly in terms of managing stakeholders and the institutional environment. Social entrepreneurs commonly use strategies for reshaping business norms, influencing consumer culture and raising social issues awareness, leveraging the values of stakeholders to secure essential support. Originality/value As SMEs confront escalating pressure to align with the sustainable development agenda, the findings underscore the critical significance of drawing insights from the burgeoning SE growth literature. This suggests that traditional SME growth literature stands to gain invaluable insights from recent SE research, fostering a more nuanced comprehension of sustainability-centric SME growth trajectories.

State Regulation of Employment in Kazakhstan: Labor Market and Ways of Development

State regulation of population employment (hereinafter – SREP) is critical in ensuring national stability and prosperity. The present study aims to explore avenues for enhancing SREP in Kazakhstan and formulate actionable implementation proposals. The methodology employed encompasses scientific abstraction, comparative analysis through induction and deduction, communication analysis, statistical data analysis, and an integrated approach to generate comprehensive insights. The study reveals a 1-3% increase in the workforce and self-employed individuals over the past three years, which signifies moderate but consistent growth in labor participation. However, the COVID-19 pandemic led to a temporary 2% rise in unemployment in 2022, a setback followed by a reduction to 1% by the end of 2023, indicating a gradual improvement in labor market conditions. The study proposes innovative measures aimed at fostering job creation, especially in emerging sectors such as information technology and the “green” economy, emphasizing the need for strategic investment in these areas. Furthermore, recommendations are provided to support entrepreneurship and the development of small and medium-sized enterprises, which are pivotal for sustainable employment growth. The findings of this research indicate that the proposed measures have the potential to enhance employment levels and contribute to overall economic growth significantly. The contribution of this study lies in identifying effective strategies for further development and enhancement of SREP to increase employment opportunities and promote economic resilience in Kazakhstan. Future research will examine the impact of legislative changes on employment, the implications of automation and digitalization, and provide a comparative analysis of successful international employment regulation practices.

Beyond COVID-19 business transformational opportunities: Develop e-satisfaction for predicting repeat purchase behavior based on “goodwill e-trust” ; Case of South Korean SMEs

The increasing prevalence of e-commerce has transformed online shopping into one of the most favored methods for consumers. This study investigates the factors influencing initial e-trust formation toward e-commerce adoption, focusing on information quality, web interface, and company reputation. It aims to assess how e-trust affects customer satisfaction and the sustained use of e-commerce, and explores the moderating role of perceived privacy concerns. Utilizing a randomized distribution of questionnaires among 236 participants, and employing a seven-point Likert scale, the study gathered data both online and offline.Statistical analyses using SPSS AMOS confirmed the acceptance of all proposed hypotheses. The findings reveal that e-trust, grounded in goodwill-trust theory, significantly influences trust and satisfaction, thereby enhancing future purchase intentions and positively affecting online shopping behavior. The study demonstrates that understanding and addressing the antecedents of e-trust is crucial for fostering consumer satisfaction and promoting continued e-commerce adoption.Notably, Post-COVID-19 consumers showed a decrease in privacy concerns compared to Pre-COVID-19, indicating reduced fear and apprehension associated with online shopping. This reduction in privacy concerns is linked to an increased likelihood of repurchase behavior. Theoretical implications suggest that the research provides valuable insights for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), helping them enhance customer trust and satisfaction, thus gaining a competitive edge over larger e-commerce firms. The findings underscore the long-term impact of e-trust on consumer adoption in the globalized e-commerce landscape.

Research on the Influencing Factors of High-quality Development of Export Enterprises

The Internet and big data have a profound impact on export enterprises, and their high-quality development is also facing unprecedented opportunities and challenges. This paper takes small and medium-sized enterprises of sales oriented export trade as the research sample, and uses the BP neural network model to conduct empirical research on the factors affecting the high-quality development of enterprises. Research conclusions: (1) A influencing factor system for high-quality development of export enterprises has been constructed, which includes 26 specific factors; (2) The factors in order of impacts: convenience of shopping operations, website content, comprehensive quality of employees, product awareness, consumer penetration rate, internationalization level, enterprise scale and reputation; (3) Factors such as overall employee quality, internationalization level, employee training system and effectiveness, network security, internationalization style of website design, convenience of shopping operations, sales growth rate of the enterprise, and profit growth rate do not have a direct, absolute positive relationship with the high-quality development of the enterprise.