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The Use of Strategy Tools and Frameworks by SMEs in the Strategy Formation Process

Bellamy, Lawrence, Amoo, Nii, Mervyn, Kieran and Hiddlestone-Mumford, Jacqueline (2019) The Use of Strategy Tools and Frameworks by SMEs in the Strategy Formation Process. International Journal of Organizational Analysis. ISSN 1934-8835

Item Type: Article

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the use of tools and techniques of strategy and strategic analysis within small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as a part of the strategy formation process.
Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a qualitative, multiple-case-based investigation with semi-structured interviews and secondary data sources to create a context-rich insight to the area examined.
Findings

The findings indicate a strong orientation towards operational tools deployment aligned with financial management and resources and process planning, monitoring and control. Strategic perspectives of the respondents indicate an implicit, rather than explicit deployment of strategy tools and unstructured deployment, but general awareness of the resulting component issues. Clearer strategic approaches and strong implementation appear to positively influence success, when measured by growth.
Research limitations/implications

This study is limited to nine organisations within a UK geographic region, and therefore, larger-scale investigation would be beneficial to extend and confirm the findings in differing contexts.
Practical implications

With resource scarcity potentially stymying the opportunity for owner-managers to develop more structured approaches to strategic analysis and development, consideration should be given to how owner-managers can further develop their strategic thinking to support enhanced strategic outcomes for their organisations. Furthermore, strategy educationalists may wish to reflect upon the manner in which they prepare delegates for strategic roles, where the SME context may differ radically from corporate experience.
Originality/value

The methodology for this study differs substantially from previous investigations within the field, which has had relatively few contributions, as it uses in-depth, context-rich qualitative techniques to investigate the micro-processes at play. The conclusions capture new insights and indications and identify areas for further investigation, hence adding to the understanding of a complex and heterogeneous field.

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More Information

Depositing User: Jen Bacon

Identifiers

Item ID: 10345
Identification Number: https://doi.org/10.1108/IJOA-02-2018-1363
ISSN: 1934-8835
URI: http://sure.sunderland.ac.uk/id/eprint/10345
Official URL: https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.110...

Users with ORCIDS

Catalogue record

Date Deposited: 04 Feb 2019 11:02
Last Modified: 30 Sep 2020 11:16

Contributors

Author: Lawrence Bellamy
Author: Nii Amoo
Author: Kieran Mervyn
Author: Jacqueline Hiddlestone-Mumford

University Divisions

Faculty of Business, Law and Tourism

Subjects

Business and Management

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