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Towards a better understanding of performance measurements: the case of research-based spin-offs

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  • Roland Helm

    (University of Regensburg)

  • Oliver Mauroner

    (Fachhochschule Mainz)

  • Kendra Pöhlmann

    (University of Regensburg)

Abstract

Although performance measurement has been a prominent topic especially in an entrepreneurial context, researchers struggle to obtain conclusive results. We link this to the fact that the key role of different performance measurements has been neglected and consequently want to fill this gap by contrasting five different performance measures against each other, being: general performance, long-term perspective, technological application, financial indicators and growth. The new perspective we are offering is taking different performance measures into account at the same time and examining whether one specific measurement seems to favor, correlate or stand in some kind of causal relationship with specific exogenous success factors. By investigating the phenomenon in the case of research-based spin-offs (RBSOs), a type of newly founded ventures that is exemplary for an entrepreneurial context, we are offering insights on best performing spin-offs regarding their starting configuration, support mechanism and product-market combination. Drawing on a database of 177 spin-offs from publicly funded non-university research institutes, an analysis via logistic regression showed that each performance measurement shows different results, but the negative effect of push motivation and the positive influencing factors of a high degree of innovation and profound knowledge in assessing the targeted market are accepted success factors independent from the measurement used.

Suggested Citation

  • Roland Helm & Oliver Mauroner & Kendra Pöhlmann, 2018. "Towards a better understanding of performance measurements: the case of research-based spin-offs," Review of Managerial Science, Springer, vol. 12(1), pages 135-166, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:rvmgts:v:12:y:2018:i:1:d:10.1007_s11846-016-0217-9
    DOI: 10.1007/s11846-016-0217-9
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