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Knowledge integration in family SMEs: an extension of the 4I model

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  • Andrea Lionzo
  • Francesca Rossignoli

Abstract

This article explores the process of learning and strategic change in small and medium-sized family firms (family SMEs). Organizational learning theory posits that knowledge must be integrated throughout the firm to facilitate strategic renewal. This process occurs in a particular way in family SMEs, according to their specific characteristics. In such firms the family’s role, the company size and the lack of formal procedures and systems strongly affect the process of learning and change. The study applies the 4I model of organizational learning to three case studies and offers empirical support for this model. The article has theoretical implications for variants of the 4I model as applied to family SMEs, and implications for practice related to the family’s role in starting and perpetuating the process of learning and change. Copyright Springer Science+Business Media, LLC. 2013

Suggested Citation

  • Andrea Lionzo & Francesca Rossignoli, 2013. "Knowledge integration in family SMEs: an extension of the 4I model," Journal of Management & Governance, Springer;Accademia Italiana di Economia Aziendale (AIDEA), vol. 17(3), pages 583-608, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:jmgtgv:v:17:y:2013:i:3:p:583-608
    DOI: 10.1007/s10997-011-9197-y
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Csillag Sára & Csizmadia Péter & Hidegh Anna Laura & Szászvári Karina Ágnes, 2019. "Typical features of family-owned SME’s HR practices," Prosperitas, Budapest Business School, vol. 2019(1), pages 55-75.
    2. Csillag Sára & Csizmadia Péter & Hidegh Anna Laura & Szászvári Karina Ágnes, 2019. "Typical features of family-owned SME’s HR practices," Prosperitas, Budapest Business University, vol. 6(1), pages 55-75.
    3. Moritz Belling & Ulrich Pidun & Dodo zu Knyphausen-Aufseß, 2021. "Unbundling Strategic Change in Family Firms: the Influence of Familiness on the Strategic Change Process," Schmalenbach Journal of Business Research, Springer, vol. 73(3), pages 381-411, December.
    4. Gamble, Jordan Robert & Clinton, Eric & Díaz-Moriana, Vanessa, 2021. "Broadening the business model construct: Exploring how family-owned SMEs co-create value with external stakeholders," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 130(C), pages 646-657.

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