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Growth Management Priorities of Service-Based Micro-Enterprises in a Sparsely Populated Area

Author

Listed:
  • Martti Saarela

    (University of Oulu, Finland)

  • Kai Hänninen

    (University of Oulu, Finland)

  • Matti Muhos

    (University of Oulu, Finland)

  • Harri Jokela

    (Nihak Ltd., Finland)

Abstract

Micro-enterprises, which refer to a subset of small and medium enterprises, represent over 95% of European enterprises. Nevertheless, little is known about micro-enterprises. Location is one of the key factors concerning the development of business, and several studies have indicated the differences between urban and sparsely populated areas. However, there is a lack of literature concerning the growth management priorities of micro-enterprises, especially of micro-enterprises in sparsely populated areas. To address this gap in the literature, this multiple-case study aims to answer the following research question: What are the critical managerial incidents that occur during the growth of service-based micro-enterprises in a sparsely populated area? The results of the case study showed that the highest priority of the owners-managers of the service-based micro-enterprises was related to human resources.

Suggested Citation

  • Martti Saarela & Kai Hänninen & Matti Muhos & Harri Jokela, 2018. "Growth Management Priorities of Service-Based Micro-Enterprises in a Sparsely Populated Area," International Journal of Management, Knowledge and Learning, International School for Social and Business Studies, Celje, Slovenia, vol. 7(1), pages 55-76.
    • Handle: RePEc:isv:jouijm:v:7:y:2018:i:1:p:55-76
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    References listed on IDEAS

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