Michael Neubert

Significance of the speed of internationalisation for born global firms - a multiple case study approach

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.

Lean internationalisation of high-tech firms

This study examines the internationalisation of high-tech start-up firms (HSFs) from small and open economies (SMOPECs). It explores how HSFs may differ in their speed of internationalisation relying on information collected via interviews with the CEOs or founders of 32 HSFs that operate internationally. It uses a comparative cross-national multiple-case study research design to answer the research questions. The findings provide the basis for developing propositions for further comparative analyses of the early and fast internationalisation of HSFs based in emerging and developed markets. The study contributes to the literature on networks, internationalisation and international entrepreneurship.

Africa - are small- and medium-sized enterprises wasting chances?

This multiple case study looks at promising forms of market entry by German-speaking SMEs in the engineering industry in Africa. Kenya was selected as an example for this study. In an empirical study, which is built on the issue was investigated using qualitative in-depth interviews with subject matter experts. In addition to this, the market attractiveness of Kenya and examples of successful market entry were analysed. The results of the multiple case studies were clustered and evaluated using triangulation. The research results confirm that the selection of the market entry form depends greatly on the market attractiveness. In the first phase of market entry, direct export in collaboration with local distributors who help to bridge differences in the market and with obtaining initial customers dominates. Sustainable market success only develops, however, if SMEs are willing to engage with the market and adjust what they offer to the local requirements.

How and why born global firms differ in their speed of internationalisation - a multiple case study approach

This article analyses the research problem of how and why born global firms (BGF) differ in their speed of internationalisation. It is based on the conceptual framework of the BGF theory and the Uppsala internationalisation process model. The research questions will be answered using a multiple case study research design with qualitative, in-depth, face-to-face, semi structured interviews of twenty subject matter experts (SME). The research results show that factors like the skills of the entrepreneur and the management team, their business networks, the business model of the BGF, the market entry mode, the successful implementation of a structured market development process, the uniqueness of the technology and the product portfolio, the availability of market opportunities, and the size of their home market influence the speed of internationalisation.

How European Tier-one automotive suppliers evaluate and select efficient market entry modes to India

This article analyses the research problem of how European Tier-one automotive suppliers (ETOAS) evaluate and select efficient market entry modes (MEMs) to develop emerging growth markets using the country market India as an example. It is based on the conceptual framework of the Uppsala internationalisation process model (UIPM) and the notion that international market development is an integrated part of strategic management to facilitate sustainable and profitable growth. The research questions will be answered using a multiple case study (MCS) research structure with qualitative, in-depth, face-to-face, semi-structured interviews of 18 subject matter experts (SME) and additional sources of evidence. The research results show that European suppliers of the automotive industry, which use a structured market entry process (MEP), will enter the Indian market faster, with less risk, and more profitability. This proposed market entry process consists of four steps and seven different integration levels.