Review of Business Growth Models: Research Strategies and Empirical Evidence

This study reviews research on growth configurations, often referred as stages of growth or lifecycle perspectives, for business growth. Numerous stage models have attempted to clarify management priorities during the early stages of business growth. However, current literature does not offer an extensive review of the methodologies and underlying assumptions of the configuration perspective. In academic discussions, the absence of that level of analysis often leads to confusion. For example, the configuration perspective is often described as overly conceptual even though many of the studies seem to be empirically based. This research problem above mentioned can be condensed into two research questions: What kinds of research strategies and empirical evidence are used in growth configuration studies? This meta-analysis focuses on configuration models of company growth and development. The aim of this study is to fill a gap in the literature by analysing 90 configuration studies conducted over the past 60 years. By the assessing selected attributes in the models, this study identifies well-covered areas, highlights trends and provides ideas for fresh research approaches. This meta-analysis functions as a gateway to the research strategies of a broad collection of literature. The analysis reveals the great diversity within the configuration perspective and provides guidelines for future development of the field.