Overview
Since the late 1980s, economic power has become progressively concentrated within a number of industries at an international level, with mergers and acquisitions undertaken by large multinational firms establishing even larger conglomerates. Where, then, does this trend leave the small and medium-sized firms (SMEs)? This volume examines the changing role of SMEs in this globalizing world economy. This role is most often explained by a model of local growth which emphasizes learning, networking and 'embeddedness'. Illustrated by a wide range of case studies from the throughout the developed world, the international and interdisciplinary team of contributors elaborate, extend and critique this key theoretical perspective. They address significant issues including: the impact of regulation; power relationships and supply chain management; competitive advantage; technological change and obsolescence; 'learning', knowledge transfers and resource bases; and managerial issues. In doing so, the volume provides a more balanced and comprehensive understanding of how best SMEs might be developed.Synopsis
Since the late 1980s, economic power has become progressively concentrated within a number of industries at an international level, with mergers and acquisitions undertaken by large multinational firms establishing even larger conglomerates. Where, then, does this trend leave the small and medium-sized firms (SMEs)? This volume examines the changing role of SMEs in this globalizing world economy. This role is most often explained by a model of local growth which emphasizes learning, networking and 'embeddedness'. Illustrated by a wide range of case studies from the throughout the developed world, the international and interdisciplinary team of contributors elaborate, extend and critique this key theoretical perspective. They address significant issues including: the impact of regulation; power relationships and supply chain management; competitive advantage; technological change and obsolescence; 'learning', knowledge transfers and resource bases; and managerial issues. In doing so, the volume provides a more balanced and comprehensive understanding of how best SMEs might be developed.
Booknews
Vatne (economic geography, Norwegian School of Economics and Business Administration) and Taylor (geography, U. of Portsmouth) present 12 contributions primarily authored by geographers, economists, and management scientists associated with the International Geographic Union's Commission on the Organization of Industrial Space. The aim of the work is to analyze and critically investigate theoretical propositions set out in the debate on flexible specialization and industrial districts. Principle among these are the concepts of business networks and innovation, the clustering of economic activities, the importance of small firms in the revitalization of local economies, and the development of innovation systems. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)