Work

Knowledge absorption and innovation in UK SMEs: A study by economic sector and place

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: This study focusses on knowledge absorption in SMEs and their abilities to develop innovations. It does so by examining SMEs in three different economic sectors, namely, manufacturing, high-tech and services. In doing so it provides one of the first comparative studies of SMEs within these different sectors. It also examines variations by place and compares the performance of SMEs across four distinct places within the UK. The research is based around both a quantitative analysis of firm performances followed by a detailed in-depth qualitative study. Our results focussed on the stages of knowledge transfer from acquisition, assimilation, through to the transformation and exploitation of knowledge. The findings draw attention to the significance. of management practices within SMEs and recognised the importance of open innovation. The study indicates that place alone does not play a key role, compared with the industry sector.

Source: Small Business International Review

DOI: 10.26784/sbir.v8i2.626

Authors: Gareth Shaw, David F Murphy, Alison Marshall, Alessandro Rosiello, Vania Sena, Junxiong Li

Institutions: University of Exeter, University of Cumbria, University of Edinburgh, University of Sheffield

Language: English

Topic: Innovation and Knowledge Management

Subfield: Strategy and Management

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: Innovate UK