The dynamism of SMEs in Colombia: A comparative study of companies

Mónica Franco-Ángel, David Urbano

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticleResearchpeer-review

    6 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    © 2014, Universidad del Zulia. All rights reserved. The purpose of this qualitative research is to identify determining factors for the dynamism of eight small and medium Colombian enterprises (SMEs) located in two of the most important regions of the country, through a study of multiple cases with one analysis unit. Information was obtained through in-depth interviews with each ofthe founding businessmen and with the person next-in-line in the hierarchy, as well as with multiple sources of evidence and observations. Information was tabulated and categorized using Atlas.ti software. The conceptual reference framework included the theory of resources and capacities, and institutional theory. Results of the study suggest that the most relevant internal factors are financial resources, reputation and the prestige of the companies in the eyes of the communities, specific abilities of both entrepreneur and employees and strategic organizational capacities. On the other hand, the factor in the surroundings that most affects the dynamism achieved by the studied enterprises is fundamentally the culture related to the influence of the community and family members of the founder on the business process. Conclusions are that entrepreneurial dynamism is related to internal and external factors. Differentiation in the resources and strategic organizational capacities permit the heterogeneity of the SMEs and the generation of competitive advantages.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)319-338
    JournalRevista Venezolana de Gerencia
    Volume19
    Issue number66
    Publication statusPublished - 1 Apr 2014

    Keywords

    • Entrepreneurial dynamism
    • Institutions
    • Resources
    • SMEs

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