Management challenges in rapidly growing Lithuanian enterprises

Abstract

Purpose

The paper aims first of all to identify the stage of the life cycle of rapidly growing Lithuanian enterprises and the main challenges that management faces at a particular stage.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology of the study is based on the research works carried out by Hanks and Watson, Miller and Friesen and Kazanjian. On the basis of the selected factors an original questionnaire was developed and administered to eight Lithuanian companies.

Findings

Main findings of the empirical study show that rapidly growing Lithuanian companies correspond to the main life cycle features and face specific problems that were partially reported by numerous research works but also some unique ones. Findings confirm the reliability of the life cycle studies.

Research limitations/implications

The research could be extended to the broader sample, especially into different sectors. Also it would be beneficial to carry out the study in different countries with developing economies to test unique findings of the research.

Practical implications

The findings can be used by managers to predict and prepare for meeting effectively the challenges associated with certain stages of enterprise growth.

Originality/value

The paper is a first attempt to apply organisational life cycle theory in order to systemise the challenges that Lithuanian enterprises face, and to contribute to the development of the debate on organisational life cycle theory reliability.

Citation

Pundziene, A., Kundrotas, V. and Lydeka, Z. (2006), "Management challenges in rapidly growing Lithuanian enterprises", Baltic Journal of Management, Vol. 1 No. 1, pp. 34-48. https://doi.org/10.1108/17465260610640868