A CM-DEMATEL assessment of SME competitiveness factors

Xavier S. Bastos, Fernando A.F. Ferreira, Devika Kannan*, Neuza C.M.Q.F. Ferreira, Nerija Banaitienė

*Kontaktforfatter

Publikation: Bidrag til tidsskriftTidsskriftartikelForskningpeer review

Abstract

Competitiveness is a crucial dimension in accurate assessments of organizations’ use of their resources and capabilities, which, if utilized effectively and efficiently, allow companies to achieve numerous competitive advantages. Firm level of competitiveness has assumed increasing importance, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), as it generates not only better organizational performance but also, in many cases, business activity survival. However, assessing competitiveness factors (CFs) is a complex, challenging endeavor given the multiple variables that influence companies’ competitiveness. Thus, a comprehensive evaluation model is a necessary tool for decision makers who seek to assess their organization's competitiveness. To overcome previous research limitations, this study combines cognitive mapping and the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) method to develop a complete, well-informed model that facilitates dynamic analyses of cause-and-effect relationships among CFs. Two in-person sessions were held with a panel of specialists in SME competitiveness, during which five clusters of CFs emerged from the discussion and knowledge shared. The results were subsequently validated by a neutral expert. The advantages and limitations of the proposed framework are also analyzed.

OriginalsprogEngelsk
TidsskriftCIRP Journal of Manufacturing Science and Technology
Vol/bind46
Sider (fra-til)74-88
ISSN1755-5817
DOI
StatusUdgivet - nov. 2023

Bibliografisk note

Funding Information:
This work was partially funded by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (Grants UIDB/00315/2020 and UIDB/04630/2020). Records from the expert panel online meetings, including pictures, software output, and non-confidential information, can be obtained from the corresponding author upon request. The authors gratefully acknowledge the dedication and special contribution of the panel members: Ana Matias, Bruno Banha, Diogo Gomes, Diogo Pinto, Gustavo Abreu, Isabel Luna, João Paiva, Pedro Hora, Rui Assis, and Ruben Ferreira. The authors are also grateful to Camila d′Angelo, Head of the Entrepreneurship Department at the National Association of Young Entrepreneurs (ANJE in Portuguese), for the important insights provided in the results consolidation session.

Funding Information:
This work was partially funded by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (Grants UIDB/00315/2020 and UIDB/04630/2020 ). Records from the expert panel online meetings, including pictures, software output, and non-confidential information, can be obtained from the corresponding author upon request. The authors gratefully acknowledge the dedication and special contribution of the panel members: Ana Matias, Bruno Banha, Diogo Gomes, Diogo Pinto, Gustavo Abreu, Isabel Luna, João Paiva, Pedro Hora, Rui Assis, and Ruben Ferreira. The authors are also grateful to Camila d′Angelo, Head of the Entrepreneurship Department at the National Association of Young Entrepreneurs (ANJE in Portuguese), for the important insights provided in the results consolidation session.

Publisher Copyright:
© 2023

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