Significance of the speed of internationalisation for born global firms - a multiple case study approach. (2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Neubert, Michael
• Is Part Of: International journal of teaching and case studies. Volume 7:Number 1(2016)
• Page Start: 66
• Page End: 81
• Publication Date: 2016
• Subjects: early internationalisation -- internationalisation speed -- high technology -- high tech firms -- start-ups -- small economies -- open economies -- case studies -- born globals -- BGFs -- Uppsala internationalisation process model -- Switzerland -- business models; Teaching -- Periodicals; 371.10205
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1749-9151

Abstract

This article analyses the significance of the speed of internationalisation for born global firms (BGFs). In this multiple case study, BGFs are defined as high-tech start-up firms (HSFs) from a small and open economy (SMOPEC) like Switzerland. The theoretical framework consists of the Uppsala internationalisation process model and BGF theory. A sample of 20 subject matter experts (SME) is interviewed. The results of this study show that the significance of the speed of internationalisation of HSFs is considered essential for the survival of HSFs from SMOPECs. Consequently, all SMEs included early and fast internationalisation in their business plans and built their business models accordingly.