Using a large sample of Italian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), we investigate the effect of business cooperation realized through a Bnetwork contract^ on the economic performance of network members. We find that establishing a formal business network has a positive effect on a firm’s gross margin ratio and exports, but not on profits. The advantages of this type of networking are stronger in the cases of the following: smaller firms; firms operating in traditional markets; firms operating in turbulent markets; firms located in less developed areas; and firms not part of an industrial district. The characteristics of a network (such as its size, geographical dispersion, and the sectorial diversity of its members) also have an impact on firm performance.

The advantages of formalizing networks: new evidence from Italian SMEs

Maurizio Cisi;Francesco Devicienti;Alessandro Manello;Davide Vannoni
2020-01-01

Abstract

Using a large sample of Italian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), we investigate the effect of business cooperation realized through a Bnetwork contract^ on the economic performance of network members. We find that establishing a formal business network has a positive effect on a firm’s gross margin ratio and exports, but not on profits. The advantages of this type of networking are stronger in the cases of the following: smaller firms; firms operating in traditional markets; firms operating in turbulent markets; firms located in less developed areas; and firms not part of an industrial district. The characteristics of a network (such as its size, geographical dispersion, and the sectorial diversity of its members) also have an impact on firm performance.
2020
54
1183
1200
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11187-018-0127-0
Formal business network, SMEs. Economic performance
Maurizio Cisi, Francesco Devicienti, Alessandro Manello, Davide Vannoni
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/2318/1683577
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