Mapping SME productivity research: a systematic review of empirical evidence and future research agenda

Abstract

SMEs are the lifeblood of economies around the world. They play an important role in productivity growth, which is crucial for developed economies as they adjust to major trends such as the industrial revolution, an aging population, and changes in the nature of work. This study maps the SME productivity research landscape by way of a systematic literature review focusing on the direct, indirect, as well as mediating/moderating factors that enable or constrain productivity in SMEs. We review 109 empirical studies and highlight the fragmented nature of the extant research in this field. Our thematic analysis identifies six key themes, namely organizational environment, organizational capabilities, investments, types of innovation, external knowledgebase and commercialization. By taking stock of existing knowledge, we highlight critical gaps and methodological issues that limit our understanding of SME productivity. We propose a future research agenda to address current shortcomings and advance knowledge on this topic. Implications for policy are also discussed.

Broadband Mobile Applications’ Adoption by SMEs in Taiwan—A Multi-Perspective Study of Determinants

“…Randolph et al argued that IT technology in "coopetition" can not only facilitate knowledge communication in business relationships, but also help firms to develop "coopetition" strategies and relationships [63]. Furthermore, there is much research that states that there are limitations for SMEs, such as resources, capital, technology, and attracting skilled employees (i.e., [6,64,65]), which is the so-called "Liability of Smallness" [66]. Chatterjee et al also proved that external support can help employees acquire the necessary knowledge for the effective use of new technology [40].…”

“…The rapidly developing broadband mobile technology with more powerful features not only facilitates various types of innovative applications such as telecommuting, digital marketing, cloud computing services, internet of things (IoT), smart home and smart city, augmented reality (AR), and artificial intelligence (AI) manufacturing, but also accelerates the innovation of business models and change the appearance of industries [4]. SMEs play an important role in economic growth and job creation [5,6], and faced severe business difficulties during the pandemic [7]. The use of innovative ICT and mobile applications is more vital for SMEs, however, few studies have focused on the adoption of broadband mobile applications to expedite the growth and evolution of SMEs.…”

“…At the significant level of 0.05, (2-tailed), the correlation was significant. 1 Relative Advantage 2 Compatibility 3 Trialability 4 Observability 5 Data Security6 Top Management Support7 Employees' Knowledge 8 Absorptive Capability9 Competitive Pressure 10 Business Partner11 External Support12 Government Support13 Performance Expectancy14 Effort Expectancy15 User Habit16 Internal Users' Intention.…”

Mediating role of manufacturing strategy in the competitive strategy and firm performance: evidence from SMEs

“…, 2021b). A firm's operational, strategic choices can affect characteristics such as production systems, IT capabilities and supply chains (Owalla et al. , 2020; Ahmad and Schroeder, 2011).…”

“…Manufacturing strategies, if appropriately managed, can contribute significantly to achieving this goal (Dangayach and Deshmukh, 2001;Mirzaei and Winroth, 2016;Dohale et al, 2021b). A firm's operational, strategic choices can affect characteristics such as production systems, IT capabilities and supply chains (Owalla et al, 2020;Ahmad and Schroeder, 2011). However, a thorough literature review indicates that specific standard competencies must be developed by implementing appropriate manufacturing strategies to support firms' competitive strategies and thrive in today's competitive environment.…”