Toward a dynamic capabilities’ diffusion model for international business headway of SMEs: evidence from the metallurgic and metal-mechanic (MMI) sectors
Review of International Business and Strategy
ISSN: 2059-6014
Article publication date: 6 April 2021
Issue publication date: 13 April 2022
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to explore the characteristics of capability exchange within internationalizing small and medium enterprises (SMEs) of the Portuguese metallurgic and metal-mechanic sectors.
Design/methodology/approach
Multiple case research instrumentalizes a (manifest) content analysis based upon qualitative data gathered from the interviewing of the strategic apex of four multinational enterprises, codified in the light of the well-known Weber protocol.
Findings
The results uncover the existence of a multi-diffusional approach with a bi-directional regime of transferability, where reciprocal transference is non-simultaneous. Operational rigidities are asserted to be stifling the diffusion of capabilities across subsidiaries and hindering higher economies of learning.
Research limitations/implications
The current paradigm of international capabilization of the sector requires substantial enhancements in its design for the benefit of the firm’s international competitiveness, growth and wealth.
Originality/value
Organizational capabilities are a determinant of competitiveness. Hitherto, the phenomena of (capabilities) mobility and transferability are still acknowledged as a clear gap. This study opens, therefore, avenues on international capabilization in relation to the modeling and testing of global dynamic capabilities and its replicability across industries.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors gladly thank to Dr Kenneth Rushe for the time dedicated to the proofreading of the manuscript.
Citation
Abrantes, B.F., Preto, M.T. and António, N. (2022), "Toward a dynamic capabilities’ diffusion model for international business headway of SMEs: evidence from the metallurgic and metal-mechanic (MMI) sectors", Review of International Business and Strategy, Vol. 32 No. 2, pp. 204-227. https://doi.org/10.1108/RIBS-10-2020-0125
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2021, Emerald Publishing Limited