Family protocol: how it shapes succession in family firms

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to understand the role that family protocol can have in the succession planning process of family businesses.

Design/methodology/approach

For this purpose, the authors decided on a qualitative approach and performed an exploratory case study in Portugal: one firm with a family protocol. As data collection techniques, interviewing, direct observation and documentary analysis were used.

Findings

Based on the empirical evidence, it is concluded that a family protocol can help succession planning and favour the continuity and survival of the family business.

Practical implications

This study shows the relevance of a family protocol for the succession process that seems to be at the basis of family firms’ continuity, survival and minimising their failure.

Originality/value

Although family firms are many in number and central in the dynamics of the world economy, the family protocol has not been approached as a determinant of a successful succession process. This holds particularly for the realm of family firms.

Citation

Matias, C. and Franco, M. (2020), "Family protocol: how it shapes succession in family firms", Journal of Business Strategy, Vol. 41 No. 3, pp. 35-44. https://doi.org/10.1108/JBS-09-2018-0167