Small and Medium sized Enterprises (SMEs) are becoming increasingly innovative in order to remain competitive. From an entrepreneurial perspective there has been an increasing reluctance from entrepreneurs and small firm owners on this changing role of growth and innovation. Current findings highlight that majority of SMEs in the United Kingdom do not actively employ other people (Small Business Service, 2004) and for those that do, only a small majority engage in innovation (Gray, 2006). Scottish policies have encouraged growth and innovation in SMEs. However, there is still reluctance amongst owners to an extent.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
1.1 Research question
2. Research objectives
3. Literature Review
3.1 Definition of SMEs
3.2 SMEs in Scotland
3.3 Conclusion
4. Research Methodology
4.1 Research design
4.2 Sampling and sample size
4.3 Data collection
4.4 Reliability
4.5 Validity
4.6 Data analysis
4.7 Study limitations
Research Goals and Key Topics
The primary aim of this research is to investigate the relationship between growth and innovation within Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) based in Glasgow, addressing a gap in existing literature regarding location-specific dynamics.
- The operational definition and characteristics of SMEs in Scotland.
- The correlation between innovative practices and business growth metrics.
- Methodological approaches to qualitative research within small business environments.
- Governmental support systems and the competitive landscape for Scottish SMEs.
- Challenges related to innovation, such as the "wait and see" technology adoption approach.
Excerpt from the Book
Definition of SMEs
The European Union Commission (2003) officially redefined a SME in 2003 as:
“The category of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is made up of enterprises which employ fewer than 250 persona and which have an annual turnover not exceeding 50 million euro, and/or an annual balance sheet total not exceeding 43 million euro.”
However, because SMEs will vary in their levels of size, employment and sales it is difficult for there to be one uniformly accepted definition (Storey, 1994). For example, the World Bank defines SMEs as having up to 300 employees with a maximum turnover of $15,000,000, whereas UNDP characterises SMEs as having a maximum of 200 employees (Gibson et al, 2008).
Summary of Chapters
1. Introduction: Outlines the significance of SMEs in the UK and identifies the specific research question regarding the growth-innovation relationship in Glasgow.
2. Research objectives: Details the four core goals, ranging from defining SMEs to developing practical recommendations for business growth.
3. Literature Review: Provides a theoretical foundation by discussing SME definitions, historical innovation research, and the specific context of Scottish business environments.
4. Research Methodology: Describes the qualitative research design, including convenience sampling, interview protocols, and measures taken to ensure reliability and validity.
Keywords
SMEs, Growth, Innovation, Glasgow, Scotland, Entrepreneurship, Business Performance, Qualitative Research, Business Strategy, Small Business, Organizational Development, Technology Adoption
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core focus of this research?
The research examines the relationship between growth and innovation in Small and Medium Sized Enterprises specifically located in Glasgow.
What are the central themes of the study?
The main themes include defining SME structures, identifying drivers of innovation, analyzing the Scottish business environment, and assessing organizational growth strategies.
What is the primary research question?
The study seeks to answer: "To what extent is there a relationship between growth and innovation in Small and Medium Sized Enterprises in Glasgow?"
Which scientific methodology is applied?
The study employs a qualitative research design, utilizing semi-structured interviews and secondary data to explore the unique contexts of selected SMEs.
What topics are covered in the main body?
The main body covers literature on the innovation-growth nexus, historical development of SME research, the operational definition of SMEs, and the qualitative methodological approach.
Which keywords define this work?
Key terms include SMEs, Growth, Innovation, Glasgow, Entrepreneurship, and Qualitative Research.
Why is there a need for research specifically in Glasgow?
While there is abundant research on SMEs in Scotland generally, the author identifies a clear gap in knowledge regarding the innovation-growth relationship in the specific context of Glasgow.
How does the author define an SME for this study?
The study adopts the operational definition from McQuaid (2003): an enterprise with fewer than 250 employees, a maximum turnover of 40 million euro, and a maximum balance sheet of 27 million euro.
- Quote paper
- Sherry King (Author), 2011, Growth and innovation in SMEs in Glasgow, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.hausarbeiten.de/document/269803
