ABSTRACT

Due to knowledge and resource constraints, collaboration is often part of the SME internationalization process. Often, these collaborations involve a larger partner organization. Perceptions of the SME in collaboration are understudied, particularly in relation to unequal size. This research presents case studies of three New Zealand SMEs who engage in international collaboration with larger partners. Although there are benefits gained in collaborating with larger firms, SMEs face challenges managing these partnerships. However, it the strategic use of informal relationships helped to overcome the challenges of size difference. These aspects of informal relationship management represent a theoretical contribution.

摘要

由于知识和资源的限制，协作通常是中小企业国际化过程的一部分。通常，这些合作涉及更大的合作伙伴组织。中小企业对协作的看法被低估了，特别是在规模不平等方面。这项研究提供了三个与大型合作伙伴进行国际合作的新西兰中小企业的案例研究。尽管与大型企业合作会获得好处，但中小企业在管理这些合作伙伴关系方面仍面临挑战。然而，非正式关系的战略性使用有助于克服规模差异的挑战。非正式关系管理的这些方面代表了理论上的贡献。