Lyudmila Mihaylova

Using Key “Blue Ocean” Tools for Strategy Rethinking of a SME: A Case from the Bulgarian Knitwear Industry

Abstract The purpose of the article is to explore opportunities for rethinking the strategy of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) using the “Blue Ocean” concept and its inherent value innovation paradigm as an alternative to the traditional competitive strategy rationale. The paper also highlights important aspects of analytical tools of a relatively less known practice for Bulgaria, such as the “Strategy Canvas”, the “Four Actions Framework”, the “Eliminate-Reduce-Raise-Create Grid” and the “Six Paths Framework”, and shows how to apply them when analysing and creating a new and uncontested market space. Special attention is paid to the possibilities concerning the practical use of the described tools in a leading SME from the Bulgarian knitwear industry.

Accountancy-Based Sources of Information for Planning Purposes in SMEs

The present paper’s research objective is to reveal the specifics and capabilities of the accountancy to serve as an information base for planning of the business of SMEs. In this regard, a research method (a survey) focusing on study of documentation in a number of Bulgarian SMEs has been carried out. Based on the results gained after the implementation of the research method, main sources of information for planning purposes in SMEs have been synthesized and evaluated. The main conclusions are that due to relatively high level of quality, actuality and availability, the accountancy-based data can constitute a major source of information for planning purposes in SMEs.