Exploratory Study of Multidimensionality Elements of Small Entrepreneurs' Network Change and Development in the Southern Region of Malaysia

Omar, Siti Sarah and Mohd Aris, Nurul Fadzilla and Teoh, Wendy Ming Yen and Chao, Dorrie and Higgs, Malcolm (2023) Exploratory Study of Multidimensionality Elements of Small Entrepreneurs' Network Change and Development in the Southern Region of Malaysia. In: 18th European Conference on Innovation and Entrepreneurship, 21st - 22nd September 2023, Universidade Portucalense, Porto, Portugal.

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Abstract

The research aims to empirically explore the multidimensionality elements in small entrepreneurs' network change and development during periods when the entrepreneurs face tipping points. Prior scholars have examined the mix of strong and weak links in small businesses and linked them to business development stages. For small firms to continue experiencing business growth, current literature must emphasize the connection between network strengths and overcoming tipping points. This research explores the multidimensional elements of small entrepreneurs' network change and development that contribute to their survival during the era of tipping points in the Southern Region of Malaysia. This qualitative research uses a multiple case study approach involving eight small firms in the southern region of Malaysia. The data collection methods include analysis of secondary documentation and in-depth interviews with the entrepreneurs using the critical incident interview technique. The data has been analyzed using NVIVO software and has employed Miles and Huberman's (1994) flows of analysis activity. Data triangulation was carried out by interviewing individuals who were seen as having strong or weak ties within the network and who were identified through interviews with the entrepreneurs. The findings enlighten two themes: the entrepreneur-level context and the dyadic-level context. The findings show that the multidimensionality of the individual entrepreneur is demonstrated through their demographic factors, personal values, experience, and capabilities. Therefore, they differ in responding to changes in their networks. Dyadic multidimensionality is found in the tie's content, structure, governance, and the dyadic life cycle. Finally, this research provides theoretical and methodological contributions and offers implications for entrepreneurs, government agencies and policy-makers.

Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Paper)
Identification Number:	10.34190/ecie.18.2.1733
Dates:	Date Event 1 September 2023 Accepted 18 September 2023 Published Online
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Small business network ties, strong ties, weak ties, network change and development
Subjects:	CAH17 - business and management > CAH17-01 - business and management > CAH17-01-01 - business and management (non-specific)
Divisions:	Faculty of Business, Law and Social Sciences > College of Accountancy, Finance and Economics Faculty of Business, Law and Social Sciences > College of Business, Digital Transformation & Entrepreneurship
Depositing User:	Gemma Tonks
Date Deposited:	11 Mar 2024 14:26
Last Modified:	20 Jun 2024 12:05
URI:	https://www.open-access.bcu.ac.uk/id/eprint/15323

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