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Utilisation of Business Advice in Small Innovative Firms: the Role of Trust and Tacit Knowledge

Author

Listed:
  • Katarzyna Łobacz

    (University of Szczecin, Poland)

  • Paweł Głodek

    (University of Lodz, Poland)

  • Edward Stawasz

    (University of Lodz, Poland)

  • Piotr Niedzielski

    (University of Szczecin, Poland)

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this paper is to expand the understanding of the influence of trust relationship, as well as tacit knowledge on the process of business advice utilisation in small innovative firms. Research Design & Methods: The analysis is based on empirical research conducted with the use of the explorative approach. The multiple case study methodology was used. Findings: Trust relationships as well as tacit knowledge were identified as factors essential to the process of utilisation of business advice in small innovative firms. It was recognised that the significance of both factors is related not only to the process of advice, but also as a purpose of activities happening prior to advice. They are referred to as the initial phase. Implications & Recommendations: The findings provide implications for further research of the structure of the process of business advice utilisation. It is related to the inclusion of the “initial phase”, as well as to the necessity to include both factors in further research. The paper also provides implications related to the measurement of business advice output, and recommendations on the construction of public policy instruments. Contribution & Value Added: The originality of this work lies in using the process perspective and qualitative methodology in the field of the utilisation of business advice. It extends our understanding of the processes of business advice with regard to trust, as well as the use of tacit knowledge. The original contribution is to add the “initial phase” to the description of the business advice process.

Suggested Citation

  • Katarzyna Łobacz & Paweł Głodek & Edward Stawasz & Piotr Niedzielski, 2016. "Utilisation of Business Advice in Small Innovative Firms: the Role of Trust and Tacit Knowledge," Entrepreneurial Business and Economics Review, Centre for Strategic and International Entrepreneurship at the Cracow University of Economics., vol. 4(2), pages 117-138.
    • Handle: RePEc:krk:eberjl:v:4:y:2016:i:2:p:117-138
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Citations

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    Cited by:

    1. Edward Stawasz, 2019. "Factors that Shape the Competitiveness of Small Innovative Companies Operating in International Markets with a Particular Focus on Business Advice," Journal of Entrepreneurship, Management and Innovation, Fundacja Upowszechniająca Wiedzę i Naukę "Cognitione", vol. 15(1), pages 61-82.
    2. Małgorzata Runiewicz-Wardyn & Joanna Lesniowska, 2023. "Introducing the open innovation model in Polish biopharmaceutical companies: major drivers and barriers," Ekonomista, Polskie Towarzystwo Ekonomiczne, issue 1, pages 51-77.
    3. Bartosz Deszczyński & Krzysztof Fonfara & Adam Dymitrowski, 2017. "The role of relationships in initiating the internationalization process in B2B markets," Entrepreneurial Business and Economics Review, Centre for Strategic and International Entrepreneurship at the Cracow University of Economics., vol. 5(4), pages 91-109.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    innovative firms; business advice; trust relationship; tacit knowledge; utilisation of business advice;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C33 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Models with Panel Data; Spatio-temporal Models
    • F21 - International Economics - - International Factor Movements and International Business - - - International Investment; Long-Term Capital Movements

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