Anita Ellen Tobiassen

Accountants as Sources of Business Advice for Small Firms

In many countries small business accountants play an important role as business advisers for small firms in addition to providing basic accounting services. However, while some small firms make extensive use of external accountants as business advisers, a substantial proportion uses them only to a minor degree. On the basis of small firms in Norway the aim of this article is to contribute to our understanding of the determinants of such variations. Our study reveals that the quality, rather than the longevity, of the relationship between firm and authorized accountant is an important antecedent of the degree to which small firms use accountants as business advisers. In addition, the study indicates that the competency orientation of firms also functions as an important determinant.

Exploring open innovation collaboration between SMEs and larger customers: The case of high-technology firms

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore open innovation (OI) collaborations between high-tech small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and large customers. The research aims to add new insights into how smaller firms attract and build trusting relationships with larger customers for the purpose of innovation, and to highlight customers’ contribution in SMEs’ innovation process. Design/methodology/approach This exploratory research is based on three case studies and adopts a process perspective to gather qualitative data on OI collaborations, focusing on the inherent dynamics, and evolution in long-term relationships. Findings The study provides insights into how SMEs develop OI relationships with both industry and research customers by building trust through various mechanisms. Motivated by the potential benefits of OI in strengthening the firms’ technological edge, the SME managers proactively and strategically developed and managed their OI relationships. The results proved that large customers contributed greatly to the SMEs’ innovation processes both directly and indirectly. Practical implications The research provides advice for smaller firms which are considering adopting an OI strategy with customers through mechanisms such as trust building and enhancing legitimacy. Originality/value The research adds to the OI literature on SMEs by exploring how smaller firms manage OI challenges, exploit benefits, and develop trusting relationships with larger customers and research institutions.