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European Journal of Business and Management                                                               www.iiste.org
ISSN 2222-1905 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2839 (Online)
Vol 4, No.7, 2012




  Internationalization Process of Educational Consultancy Firms in
                     Bangladesh: An Evaluation
                Mohibul Islam Masum*        Md. Habibur Rahman        Mohd. Takdir Hossan
    Faculty of Business, ASA University Bangladesh, 23/3, Khilji Road, Shyamoli, Mohammadpur, Dhaka-1207,
                                                      Bangladesh
                               * E-mail of the corresponding author: masumg@hotmail.com
Abstract

The article focuses on the internationalization process of the educational consultancy firms based in Bangladesh, and
on the strategies and methods they use. The major aim of this research was to gain a better understanding of the
process by comparing and analyzing three main internationalization process theories: the Uppsala Model, Network
Theory and International Entrepreneurship Theory. An essential part of this study consists of gathering empirical data
from thirty educational consultancy firms in Bangladesh which have already been internationalized. The findings
show the application and usefulness of the three theories to these firms. The findings also indicate that the selected
firms used a combination of variables from mostly two theories: Network Theory and International Entrepreneurship
Theory and that the much criticized Uppsala Model is quite insignificant in describing the internationalization
process behavior of the firms in this industry.

Keywords: The Uppsala Internationalization Process Model, Network Theory, International Entrepreneurship
Theory, Educational Consultancy Firms.

1. Introduction

Long ago, the academics explained the internationalization process by using a stage model, which follows a step by
step process where the firm starts from no international activity and goes on to engage in some international activity
and then ends up owning subsidiaries abroad. Such is the case of the Uppsala Model proposed in 1977 by Johanson
and Vahlne. Right from the beginning this model has been criticized and after much criticism by scholars and other
authors such as Andersen (1993), Johanson and Mattson (1988) introduced a new model known as ‘The Network
Approach’, where they explained the importance of relationships with suppliers, customers and market that can
stimulate or help a firm to go abroad. While studying the firms’ internationalization process, we find that some of
these types of firms are international from inception. McDougall and Oviatt (1994) introduced the concept of
International New Ventures (INVs) and Born Globals to explain the characteristics of such firms. Later on
McDougall and Oviatt (2000) approached internationalization by explaining the role of entrepreneurship in the
process with the International Entrepreneurship Theory (IET).

1.1 Educational Consultancy Firms

An Educational consultancy firm may also be called an education agent. They work as agents for foreign educational
institutions, recruit local students, provide necessary information to the students and clients, counsel on the available
programs of study, admission and visa process. In short, the educational consultancy firms market and promote one
or more foreign educational institutions in their home country.

2. Literature Review

2.1 The Uppsala Internationalization Process Model (U-model)


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European Journal of Business and Management                                                               www.iiste.org
ISSN 2222-1905 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2839 (Online)
Vol 4, No.7, 2012


According to Mitgwe (2006), the research on the firms’ internationalization process centers on the U-Model, and that
of the Nordic school on the incremental school. The theoretical framework for this theory was first developed by
Johanson and Wiedersheim-Paul (1975) in their study of four Swedish firms, in which they observed that when firms
internationalize, they move along in a series of incremental steps which they termed as “establishment chain” or
“step by step”. In 1977, Johanson and Vahlne refined and established the model. The theory focuses on four aspects
that firms should face while going abroad: market knowledge and commitment, and commitment decisions and
current activities which are divided into stage and change aspects that interact with each other in what seems to be a
cycle (see Figure 1). The state aspects are the resources committed to the foreign market: market knowledge and
commitment decisions that would affect the firm’s opportunities and risks (Johanson & Vahlne 1977, p. 27). Market
commitment stands for those resources which are committed. Market knowledge helps the managerial team to make
decisions. There are two main types of knowledge: objective knowledge, which can be transferred from one market
to another and experiential knowledge, which is gained by experience and learned by doing or acting. The change
aspects are the results of the state aspects. Once the firms know the market, they can decide the way they will follow,
and will therefore be able to plan and execute the current activities needed to complete the cycle by committing to
the market. The basic assumption of the Uppsala Model is that market knowledge and market commitment affect
both the commitment decisions and the way the current decisions are performed, and this, in turn, changes market
knowledge and commitment. The amount of knowledge of the foreign markets and operations is influenced by the
amount of commitments of resources in foreign markets, and vice-versa (Johanson & Vahlne, 1977). Incremental
growth also suggests that the companies begin internationalization process in markets that have less psychic distance.
Psychic distance is defined as factors such as differences in language, culture, political systems, etc., which disturb
the flow of information between the firm and the market (Johanson & Wiedersheim-Paul 1975, p. 308). The path
followed by firms following this stage model states that the firms with no exporting activity will start by exporting
via an agent (see Figure 2). The sales subsidiaries can follow exporting. The firms can also use the entry modes such
as joint ventures, licensing, franchising, and depending on the nature of the firm. The last step into the chain is taken
by the wholly owned subsidiaries.

2.2 Network Theory

The Uppsala Model has been challenged by the network theorists in recent years, whose fundamental argument is
that modern high-technology firms do not exhibit the incremental process; rather they achieve a faster
internationalization through the experience and resources of network partners (Mitgwe, 2006). All firms in a market
are considered to be embedded in one or more networks via linkages to their suppliers, subcontractors, customers and
other market actors (Johanson & Mattson, 1988). According to Emerson (1981), a network is a set of two or more
connected business relationships, in which each exchange relation is between business firms that are conceptualized
as collective actors. The Network theorists see firm’s internationalization as a natural development from network
relationships with foreign individuals and firms (Johanson & Mattson, 1988). Networking is seen as a source of
market information and knowledge, which are often acquired in longer terms when there is no relationship with the
host country. Therefore, the networks are a bridging mechanism that allows for rapid internationalization (Mitgwe,
2006). The emphasis of the network approach is on bringing the involved parties closer by using the information that
the firm acquires by establishing close relationships with customers, suppliers, industry, distributors, regulatory and
public agencies as well as other market actors. Relationships are based on mutual trust, knowledge and commitment
towards each other. The first step a firm must follow in order to internationalize is the understanding of the market
where it operates, its environmental conditions and its relationships (Madsen & Servais, 1997). Johanson and
Mattson (1988) argue that as the firms internationalize, the number and strength of relationships brought up in the
network increases, helping their international extension. By using trust and increasing commitment in established
foreign networks, the firm gains penetration. After having some penetration, firms can gain international integration
by using the network and getting involved with other firms in various countries (see Figure 3). When the firm
follows these activities (see Figure 3), the relationships are formed by gaining access to the market and its resources.
The resources in the network are controlled by the firms itself, as well as other actors involved. A firm requires
resources that are controlled by other firms, which can be obtained depending on their position in the network
(Johanson & Mattson, 1988). Johanson and Mattson (1988, p. 212) have identified four categories of firms: the
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European Journal of Business and Management                                                                www.iiste.org
ISSN 2222-1905 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2839 (Online)
Vol 4, No.7, 2012


early starter, the lonely international, the late starter and the international among others. The early starter is the firm
that has only few relationships in the foreign market. They tend to have little knowledge about foreign market and
have little chance to acquire it in their home base country. In order to have knowledge, this kind of firms makes use
of agents to enter the foreign market. By using the agent’s experience, the firm will obtain knowledge. In the lonely
international category are the firms that are highly internationalized but in a market environment with a domestic
focus. They have the capabilities to promote internationalization of the market. This firm has acquired prior
knowledge and experience in a foreign market, so it has what it takes to succeed. Later starters are in a market that is
already internationalized. The firm has indirect relationship with the network. By making use of those relationships,
the firm is able to internationalize. They have the disadvantage over the competitors, since they have more
knowledge. The later starters face difficulties to get a place in the existing network. International among others
focuses on a highly internationalized firm, where both the market and the firm are highly internationalized. Since
they posses knowledge and experience, it’s easier for these firms to set sales subsidiaries, as it needs to coordinate
activities in different markets. They are well connected to international networks that provide opportunities.

2.3 International Entrepreneurship Theory (IET)

According to Zahra and George (2002), the term “international entrepreneurship” first appeared in a short article by
Morrow in 1988. Morrow (1988) suggested that advancements in technology, declining cultural barriers and
increasing cultural awareness have opened once-remote foreign markets to all kinds of companies; small firms, new
ventures as well as established companies. “Soon after that, McDougall’s (1989) empirical study comparing
domestic and international new ventures paved the way for academic study in international entrepreneurship”
(McDougall & Oviatt, 2005, p. 537). International entrepreneurship is the study of cross-border entrepreneurial
behavior focuses on how actors discover, enact, analyze and exploit opportunities in the creation of new goods or
services. McDougall and Oviatt (2000, p. 903) introduced their definition of international entrepreneurship as a
“combination of innovative, proactive and risk seeking behavior that crosses national borders and is intended to
create value in organizations”. This definition has been one of the most widely accepted ones. Afterwards, they
embrace a deeper concept of entrepreneurship, defining it as the discovery, enactment, evaluation, and exploitation of
opportunities across national borders to create future goods and services (McDougall & Oviatt, 2005). Discovery
refers to finding innovative opportunities. Enactment means to proactively put opportunities into use acquiring a
competitive advantage. Evaluation is required to interpret the actions taken by developing experience and knowledge.
“International entrepreneurship theory argues that individual and firm entrepreneurial behavior is the basis of foreign
market entry” (Mtigwe, 2006, p. 16). Technological advancements, cheap and easy ways to access to information and
better communication between the countries have helped firms go abroad. Nowadays firms are gaining
internationalization very rapidly, if not by inception as in the case of international new ventures. A modification of
McDougall and Oviatt’s (1994) definition of entrepreneurship is given by Stevenson and Jarillo (1990, p. 23), for
them entrepreneurship is “a courageous managerial value creation process through which an individual engages
innovative, proactive, calculated risk-taking behavior designed to prosecute foreign business opportunities presented
by multinational market successes and imperfections for financial and non-financial rewards”. International
Entrepreneurship has been receiving a lot of interest from the researchers and the academics. According to IET, the
key to internationalization nowadays is the entrepreneur. He is the one that possesses the skills and enough
information to measure the opportunities in the market with ability to create and make stable relationships with other
firms, suppliers, customers, government and media. He can be the one that has experiential and objective knowledge.
Since he is a risk seeker, he is also able to commit the resources in an efficient way to achieve competitive advantage.
In the international entrepreneurship theory, the entrepreneur needs to be opportunity seeking and internationally
experienced in order to exploit the opportunities he might see in the market and be able to commit to it through
entrepreneurial activities that would be translated as entrepreneurial services.

3. Methodology

For this study, data were collected from thirty educational consultancy firms based in Dhaka. The sampling technique
used is non-probabilistic by nature; more specifically, sample was purposively taken to accommodate a certain
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European Journal of Business and Management                                                               www.iiste.org
ISSN 2222-1905 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2839 (Online)
Vol 4, No.7, 2012


number of firms. Data were collected from different firms at different locations mainly in Dhaka city. Data were
collected by using a self-administered questionnaire. Data regarding internationalization process of the firms were
collected by using five-point Likert scale and the data collected were assumed to be interval in nature: 1 = not
important, 2 = little important, 3 = moderately important, 4 = important, 5 = very important. Time period of the data
collection was from 10 January 2012 to 17 February 2012.

4. Objectives

The main objective of this study is to gain a better understanding of the internationalization process of the
educational consultancy firms in Bangladesh, particularly the application and usefulness of the three main theories:
U-model, network theory and international entrepreneurship theory. Some of the additional objectives are:

         To understand the roles of the three theories in describing, explaining and guiding the internationalization
         process of the educational consultancy firms in Bangladesh.

         To identify the aspects of these theories which are most useful to the internationalization process of the
         selected firms.

5. Data Analysis

From the descriptive statistics (See table 1), it can be observed that among the 19 variables, the most significant
variable is Foreign Network, which represents both Network Theory and International Entrepreneurship Theory
(IET). This variable alone represents highest mean value which is 4.76. The second position in terms of importance
is held by three variables: local network, ability to create business network and market knowledge, with mean value
of 4.53; the first one belongs to the Network Theory, ability to create business network is related to both Network
Theory and IET and the last one is related to all the three theories though its more directly related to Uppsala Model.
The third position is held by one variable (mean value 4.10): growth opportunity and it belongs to U-Model directly
and to a certain extent to IET since an International Entrepreneur looks for opportunities to expand. The variable
‘entrepreneurial activity’ representing International Entrepreneurship Theory takes up the fourth position with mean
value of 4.06. The fifth position is taken by the variable ‘cultural awareness’ (mean value 4.03): belonging to the
U-model and referring to the factor known as ‘psychic distance’. The variable ‘managerial motivation’ representing
the IET takes the sixth position with mean value of 3.96. The seventh position is taken by the variable ‘market
opportunity’ (mean value 3.90): belonging to the U-model directly and once again, to a certain extent to IET since an
International Entrepreneur looks for opportunities in different markets. The variable ‘international experience of a
management’ representing the IET takes the eighth position with mean value of 3.83. The ninth position is taken by
the variable ‘technological advancement’ (mean value 3.76): belonging to the IET. The variable ‘risk seeking
behavior of a manager internationally’ representing the IET takes the tenth position with mean value of 3.70. It is
evident from the analysis of the top ten variables that IET gets the gold medal and network theory plays an important
role while the Uppsala Model incremental steps are not quite present in the internationalization process of the
selected firms. It seems that the firms rely heavily on the ability to perform entrepreneurial activities such as creating
business networks, looking for new markets and growth opportunities as well as networking both locally and
internationally.

In terms of foreign Network, 25 firms (about 84%) out of 30 say that this variable is very important for
internationalization process (See Figure 4). For managerial motivation, almost 27% says that this is a very important
variable and 44 % says that this is important for internationalization process (See Figure 5). Third significant variable
is management ability to take the risk. About 40% firms say that this variable is important for internationalization
process (See Figure 6). This variable is also important for internationalization process. About 57 % says that this
variable is important. Having previous knowledge about international business, helps firms especially to increase the
speed of the process. This can be better explained with the suggestion of McDougall and Oviatt (1997). They say that
it requires internationally experienced entrepreneurs to internationalize rapidly (see Figure 7). For local network,
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European Journal of Business and Management                                                               www.iiste.org
ISSN 2222-1905 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2839 (Online)
Vol 4, No.7, 2012


about 64% say that this variable is also very important for internationalization process (see Figure 8). In regard to
market knowledge, about 64 % say that this variable is very important for internationalization process (see Figure 9).
In terms of ability to create business network, about 67 % of the firms say that this variable is very important (see
Figure 10). Respectively 30% and almost 34% says that this variable i.e. creativity           is very important and
important for internationalization process (see Figure 11). About 57 % say that this variable is important for
internationalization process (see Figure 12). In terms of Market opportunity, about 34 % say that this is a very
important variable and exactly the same number of firms say that this is important for internationalization process
(see Figure 13).

The numbers of the factor extracted were found to be six (See table 2), and the cumulative percentage of variance
explained by all these six factors accounts for almost seventy-three percent (72.713). The first factor can alone
explain 18.75% of the total variability. The second factor can alone explain 16.61% of total variability and the first
two factors together, can explain 35.72% of the total variability. The third factor can explain alone 13.33% of the
total variability and the first three factors together, can explain 48.71% of the total variability. The fourth factor can
alone explain 9.31% of the total variability and the first four factors, in combination, can explain 58.02% of the total
variability. The fifth factor can alone explain 8.34% of the total variability and the first five factors, in combination,
can explain 66.37% of the total variability. The sixth factor can alone explain 6.34% of the total variability and the
first six factors together, can explain 72.71% of the total variability. In order to clarify the internationalization
process of the buying houses in Bangladesh, the rotated component matrix can be explained. The first factor
comprises of item numbers 1, 9, 10, 16, 17 and 18 (See table 3). The second factor comprises of item numbers 4 and
5. The third factor comprises of item numbers 2, 11, 13 and 19. The fourth factor consists of item number 3, 6 and 14.
The fifth factor contains item numbers 8, 12 and 15. The sixth factor comprises of item number 7 only.

6. Conclusion

From our findings we can say that in most cases IET can successfully explain the internationalization process of the
selected firms. It is also evident that these firms rely heavily on their foreign networks and the ability to create
networks both locally and internationally and their ability to take risks internationally backed by previous
international experience of managers/entrepreneurs. These are the key factors to achieve internationalization in this
industry. The Uppsala Model plays its part in the sense that the firms consider market knowledge and market
opportunity as an important factor while planning to internationalize.

7. Recommendations and Further Research

The study can generate many possibilities for further research. It would be interesting to investigate the
internationalization process of firms in different industries and countries separately. In this study we have
interviewed a limited number of firms due to lack of time and resources. But it would be a good idea to categorize
firms and then study their internationalization process to see if the theories can describe and explain the behavior of
those particular groups of firms. We would like to recommend face to face in-depth interviews for further research
which enables an interviewer to acquire more data in a reliable way.

References

Andersen, O., 1993. On the Internationalization Process of Firms: A Critical Analysis. Journal of International
Business Studies, 24 (2), pp.209-231.
Burt, R., 1997. The contingent value of social capital. Administrative Science Quarterly, 42, pp.339–365.
Emerson, R., 1981. Social Exchange Theory. New York: Basic Books.
Granovetter, M.S., 1973. The strength of weak ties. American Journal of Sociology, 78 (6), pp.1360–1380.
Johanson, J., & Mattson, L.G., 1988. Internationalization in industrial systems: A network approach. In: Hood, N.,

                                                           38
European Journal of Business and Management                                                          www.iiste.org
ISSN 2222-1905 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2839 (Online)
Vol 4, No.7, 2012


Vahlne, J-E., (eds), Strategies in global competition. pp.194-213, London: Croom Helm.
Johanson, J., & Vahlne, J-E., 1977. The Internationalization Process of the Firm-A Model of Knowledge
Development and Increasing Foreign Market Commitments. Journal of International Business Studies, 8 (1)
pp.23-32.
Johanson, J., & Wiederscheim-Paul, F., 1975. The internationalization of the firm – four Swedish cases. Journal of
Management Studies, 12 (3), pp.305-322.
Lindblom, C.E., 1959. The science of muddling through. Public Administration Review, 19 (19), pp.79–88.
Madsen, T.K., & Servais, P., 1997. The internationalization of born globals: an evolutionary process?. International
Business Review, 6 (6), pp.561-583.
McDougall, P.P., 1989. International versus domestic entrepreneurship: New venture strategic behavior and industry
structure. Journal of Business Venturing, 4, pp.387-400.
McDougall, P.P., & Oviatt, B.M., 1994. Toward a Theory of International New Ventures. Journal of International
Business Studies, 25 (1), pp.45-62.
McDougall, P.P., & Oviatt, B.M., 2000. International entrepreneurship: The intersection of two research paths.
Academy of Management Journal, 43, pp.902– 908.
McDougall, P.P., & Oviatt, B.M., 2005. Defining international entrepreneurship and modeling the speed of
internationalization. Entrepreneurship Theory & Practice, pp.537-553.
Mitgwe, B., 2006. Theoretical Milestones in International Business: The Journey to International Entrepreneurship
Theory. Journal of International Entrepreneurship, 4, pp.5-25.
Morrow, J.F., 1988. International entrepreneurship: A new growth opportunity. New Management, 3, pp.59-61.
Stevenson, H.H., & Jarillo, J.C., 1990. A paradigm of entrepreneurship: entrepreneurial management. Strategic
Management Journal, 11 (Summer Special Issue), pp.17-27.
Zahra, S.A., & George, G., 2002. International Entrepreneurship: The current status of the field and future research
agenda. In: Hitt, M.A., Ireland, R.D., Camp, S.M., & Sexton, D.L., Eds, Strategic entrepreneurship: Creating a new
mindset, pp.255-288, Oxford, UK: Blackwell Publishers.




Figure 1: Uppsala Model, state and change aspects (Johanson & Vahlne 1977)




Figure 2: Uppsala Model process, adaptation from the theory.

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European Journal of Business and Management                                                                                                                                   www.iiste.org
ISSN 2222-1905 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2839 (Online)
Vol 4, No.7, 2012




Figure 3: Network approach to internationalization, Johanson and Mattson (1988).

                                                                                                                                       Foreign Network

                                                                                                            moderately imoprtant
                                      Foreign Network                                                       important




                                                                                 Cumulative
                                    Frequency      Percent      Valid Percent     Percent
  Valid    very important                  25          83.3              83.3          83.3
           important                        3          10.0              10.0          93.3
           moderately imoprtant             2           6.7               6.7         100.0                                                                  very important

           Total                           30         100.0            100.0

Figure 4: Foreign Network
                                                                                                                                   Managerial motivation


                                                                                                       Moderately important


                                   Managerial motivation                                                                                                    Very important



                                                                                Cumulative
                                   Frequency      Percent     Valid Percent      Percent
  Valid   Very important                   8          26.7             26.7           26.7
          Important                       13          43.3             43.3           70.0
          Moderately important             9          30.0             30.0          100.0                                                                        Important

          Total                           30         100.0           100.0


Figure 5: Managerial motivation
                                                                                                            management ability to take risk


                                                                                         Little important
                                                                                                                                                           Very important
                           management ability to take risk

                                                                          Cumulative
                                 Frequency     Percent    Valid Percent    Percent
                                                                                         Moderately important
  Valid   Very important                 6         20.0            20.0         20.0
          Important                     12         40.0            40.0         60.0
          Moderately important           8         26.7            26.7         86.7                                                                             Important

          Little important               4         13.3            13.3        100.0
          Total                         30        100.0          100.0


Figure 6: Management ability to take risk




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European Journal of Business and Management                                                                                                                                www.iiste.org
ISSN 2222-1905 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2839 (Online)
Vol 4, No.7, 2012


                                                                                                 International Experience of a management

                                                                                            Little important

                                                                                            Moderately important
                                                                                                                                                    Very important

                      International Experience of a management

                                                                          Cumulative
                                 Frequency     Percent    Valid Percent    Percent
  Valid   Very important                 5         16.7            16.7         16.7
          Important                     17         56.7            56.7         73.3
          Moderately important           6         20.0            20.0         93.3
          Little important               2          6.7             6.7        100.0                                                                     Important

          Total                         30        100.0          100.0


Figure 7: International Experience of a management

                                                                                                                                Local Network
                                                                                            Little important

                                                                                            Moderately important
                                                                                            Important



                                    Local Network

                                                                          Cumulative
                                 Frequency     Percent    Valid Percent    Percent
  Valid   Very important                19         63.3            63.3         63.3
          Important                      9         30.0            30.0         93.3                                                                       Very important

          Moderately important           1          3.3             3.3         96.7
          Little important               1          3.3             3.3        100.0
          Total                         30        100.0          100.0


Figure 8: Local Network

                                                                                                                                 market knowledge

                                                                                                         Moderately important

                                                                                                         Important


                                    market knowledge

                                                                               Cumulative
                                   Frequency      Percent     Valid Percent     Percent
  Valid   Very important                  19          63.3             63.3          63.3
                                                                                                                                                          Very important
          Important                        8          26.7             26.7          90.0
          Moderately important             3          10.0             10.0         100.0
          Total                           30         100.0           100.0


Figure 9: Market knowledge

                                                                                                           Ability to create business network

                                                                                            Moderately important

                                                                                            Important



                      Ability to create business network

                                                                          Cumulative
                          Frequency Percent Valid Percent                  Percent
  Valid Very important          20     66.7         66.7                       66.7
        Important                6     20.0         20.0                       86.7                                                                     Very important


        Moderately important     4     13.3         13.3                      100.0
        Total                   30    100.0        100.0


Figure 10: Ability to create business network


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European Journal of Business and Management                                                                                                                        www.iiste.org
ISSN 2222-1905 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2839 (Online)
Vol 4, No.7, 2012



                                                                                                                                   Creativity


                                        Creativity                                                     not important



                                                                               Cumulative                                                              very important
                                                                                                       little important
                             Frequency          Percent Valid Percent           Percent
  Valid   very important            9              30.0         30.0                30.0
          important                10              33.3         33.3                63.3
                                                                                                       moderately important
          moderately important      4              13.3         13.3                76.7
          little important          3              10.0         10.0                86.7
          not important             4              13.3         13.3               100.0                                                                     important


          Total                    30             100.0        100.0


Figure 11: Creativity

                                                                                               Risk seeking behavior of a manager internationally
                                                                                                  Not important

                                                                                                  Little important
                  Risk seeking behavior of a manager internationally
                                                                                                  Moderately important
                                                                                                                                                Very important
                                                                              Cumulative
                                 Frequency     Percent      Valid Percent      Percent
  Valid   Very important                 4         13.3              13.3           13.3
          Important                     17         56.7              56.7           70.0
          Moderately important           6         20.0              20.0           90.0
          Little important               2          6.7               6.7           96.7
          Not important                  1          3.3               3.3          100.0
                                                                                                                                                      Important
          Total                         30        100.0            100.0



Figure 12: Risk seeking behavior of a manager internationally
                                                                                                                          Market Opportunity

                                                                                            little important

                                                                                            moderately important




                                  Market Opportunity                                                                                              very important


                                                                            Cumulative
                                 Frequency   Percent      Valid Percent      Percent
  Valid   very important                10       33.3              33.3           33.3
          important                     10       33.3              33.3           66.7
          moderately important           7       23.3              23.3           90.0
          little important               3       10.0              10.0          100.0                                                                   important
          Total                         30      100.0            100.0


Figure 13: Market Opportunity




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                                                       Descriptive Statistics

                                   N        Range      Minimum     Maximum        Sum        Mean   Std. Deviation    Variance
  Foreign Network                      30      2.00        3.00        5.00       143.00     4.7667       .56832           .323
  Local Network                        30      3.00        2.00        5.00       136.00     4.5333       .73030           .533
  Ability to create business
                                       30      2.00         3.00       5.00       136.00      4.5333         .73030        .533
  network
  market knowledge                     30      2.00         3.00       5.00       136.00      4.5333         .68145        .464
  Growth Opportunity                   30      2.00         3.00       5.00       123.00      4.1000         .60743        .369
  Entreprenurial Activities            30      3.00         2.00       5.00       122.00      4.0667         .78492        .616
  Cultural Awarness                    30      3.00         2.00       5.00       121.00      4.0333         .80872        .654
  Managerial motivation                30      2.00         3.00       5.00       119.00      3.9667         .76489        .585
  Market Opportunity                   30      3.00         2.00       5.00       117.00      3.9000         .99481        .990
  International Experience
                                       30      3.00         2.00       5.00       115.00      3.8333         .79148        .626
  of a management
  Technological
                                       30      4.00         1.00       5.00       113.00      3.7667        1.19434       1.426
  advancement
  Risk seeking behavior of
                                       30      4.00         1.00       5.00       111.00      3.7000         .91539        .838
  a manager internationally
  management ability to
                                       30      3.00         2.00       5.00       110.00      3.6667         .95893        .920
  take risk
  Entrepreneurial activities
                                       30      3.00         2.00       5.00       108.00      3.6000         .96847        .938
  of a Management
  Creativity                           30      4.00         1.00       5.00       107.00      3.5667        1.38174       1.909
  Size of a firm                       30      3.00         2.00       5.00       105.00      3.5000        1.07479       1.155
  Age of Firm                          30      4.00         1.00       5.00        96.00      3.2000         .99655        .993
  Similar Business Culture             30      4.00         1.00       5.00        89.00      2.9667        1.29943       1.689
  Similar Market                       30      4.00         1.00       5.00        77.00      2.5667        1.43078       2.047
  Valid N (listwise)                   30

Table 1


                                                      Total Variance Explained

                                       Initial Eigenvalues                           Extraction Sums of Squared Loadings
  Component             Total          % of Variance       Cumulative %          Total         % of Variance     Cumulative %
  1                        3.563                 18.755           18.755            3.563              18.755            18.755
  2                        3.157                 16.617           35.372            3.157              16.617            35.372
  3                        2.534                 13.338           48.710            2.534              13.338            48.710
  4                        1.770                  9.318           58.028            1.770                9.318           58.028
  5                        1.585                  8.345           66.373            1.585                8.345           66.373
  6                        1.205                  6.340           72.713            1.205                6.340           72.713
  7                         .983                  5.172           77.884
  8                         .827                  4.352           82.237
  9                         .753                  3.964           86.200
  10                        .656                  3.454           89.655
  11                        .609                  3.206           92.861
  12                        .387                  2.038           94.899
  13                        .285                  1.500           96.399
  14                        .202                  1.062           97.462
  15                        .152                   .801           98.262
  16                        .136                   .718           98.980
  17                        .105                   .551           99.531
  18                        .067                   .351           99.883
  19                        .022                   .117          100.000
  Extraction Method: Principal Component Analysis.
                                                                                                                                  Table 2

                                                                      43
European Journal of Business and Management                                                      www.iiste.org
ISSN 2222-1905 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2839 (Online)
Vol 4, No.7, 2012




                                                             Component
                                    1        2               3           4          5           6
 (1) Similar Market                 -.673
 (2) Market Opportunity                                          .673
 (3) Age of Firm                                                             .677
 (4) Similar Business Culture                    .725
 (5) Creativity                                  .714
 (6) Foreign Network                                                     -.500
 (7) Entrepreneurial Activities                                                                -.487
 (8) International Experience
                                                                                    -.519
 of a management
 (9) Entrepreneurial activities
                                    -.574
 of a Management
 (10) Management ability to
                                    .582
 take risk
 (11) Risk seeking behavior of
                                                              -.653
 a manager internationally
 (12) Growth Opportunity                                                                .478
 (13) Market Knowledge                                           .596
 (14) Size of the Firm                                                       .631
 (15) Cultural Awareness                                                                .628
 (16) Local Network                 .428
 (17) Ability to Create
                                    .697
 Business Network
 (18) Managerial Motivation         .529
 (19) Technological
                                                              -.552
 Advancement


Table 3: Rotated Component Matrix




                                                        44
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Internationalization process of educational consultancy firms in bangladesh

  • 1. European Journal of Business and Management www.iiste.org ISSN 2222-1905 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2839 (Online) Vol 4, No.7, 2012 Internationalization Process of Educational Consultancy Firms in Bangladesh: An Evaluation Mohibul Islam Masum* Md. Habibur Rahman Mohd. Takdir Hossan Faculty of Business, ASA University Bangladesh, 23/3, Khilji Road, Shyamoli, Mohammadpur, Dhaka-1207, Bangladesh * E-mail of the corresponding author: masumg@hotmail.com Abstract The article focuses on the internationalization process of the educational consultancy firms based in Bangladesh, and on the strategies and methods they use. The major aim of this research was to gain a better understanding of the process by comparing and analyzing three main internationalization process theories: the Uppsala Model, Network Theory and International Entrepreneurship Theory. An essential part of this study consists of gathering empirical data from thirty educational consultancy firms in Bangladesh which have already been internationalized. The findings show the application and usefulness of the three theories to these firms. The findings also indicate that the selected firms used a combination of variables from mostly two theories: Network Theory and International Entrepreneurship Theory and that the much criticized Uppsala Model is quite insignificant in describing the internationalization process behavior of the firms in this industry. Keywords: The Uppsala Internationalization Process Model, Network Theory, International Entrepreneurship Theory, Educational Consultancy Firms. 1. Introduction Long ago, the academics explained the internationalization process by using a stage model, which follows a step by step process where the firm starts from no international activity and goes on to engage in some international activity and then ends up owning subsidiaries abroad. Such is the case of the Uppsala Model proposed in 1977 by Johanson and Vahlne. Right from the beginning this model has been criticized and after much criticism by scholars and other authors such as Andersen (1993), Johanson and Mattson (1988) introduced a new model known as ‘The Network Approach’, where they explained the importance of relationships with suppliers, customers and market that can stimulate or help a firm to go abroad. While studying the firms’ internationalization process, we find that some of these types of firms are international from inception. McDougall and Oviatt (1994) introduced the concept of International New Ventures (INVs) and Born Globals to explain the characteristics of such firms. Later on McDougall and Oviatt (2000) approached internationalization by explaining the role of entrepreneurship in the process with the International Entrepreneurship Theory (IET). 1.1 Educational Consultancy Firms An Educational consultancy firm may also be called an education agent. They work as agents for foreign educational institutions, recruit local students, provide necessary information to the students and clients, counsel on the available programs of study, admission and visa process. In short, the educational consultancy firms market and promote one or more foreign educational institutions in their home country. 2. Literature Review 2.1 The Uppsala Internationalization Process Model (U-model) 34
  • 2. European Journal of Business and Management www.iiste.org ISSN 2222-1905 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2839 (Online) Vol 4, No.7, 2012 According to Mitgwe (2006), the research on the firms’ internationalization process centers on the U-Model, and that of the Nordic school on the incremental school. The theoretical framework for this theory was first developed by Johanson and Wiedersheim-Paul (1975) in their study of four Swedish firms, in which they observed that when firms internationalize, they move along in a series of incremental steps which they termed as “establishment chain” or “step by step”. In 1977, Johanson and Vahlne refined and established the model. The theory focuses on four aspects that firms should face while going abroad: market knowledge and commitment, and commitment decisions and current activities which are divided into stage and change aspects that interact with each other in what seems to be a cycle (see Figure 1). The state aspects are the resources committed to the foreign market: market knowledge and commitment decisions that would affect the firm’s opportunities and risks (Johanson & Vahlne 1977, p. 27). Market commitment stands for those resources which are committed. Market knowledge helps the managerial team to make decisions. There are two main types of knowledge: objective knowledge, which can be transferred from one market to another and experiential knowledge, which is gained by experience and learned by doing or acting. The change aspects are the results of the state aspects. Once the firms know the market, they can decide the way they will follow, and will therefore be able to plan and execute the current activities needed to complete the cycle by committing to the market. The basic assumption of the Uppsala Model is that market knowledge and market commitment affect both the commitment decisions and the way the current decisions are performed, and this, in turn, changes market knowledge and commitment. The amount of knowledge of the foreign markets and operations is influenced by the amount of commitments of resources in foreign markets, and vice-versa (Johanson & Vahlne, 1977). Incremental growth also suggests that the companies begin internationalization process in markets that have less psychic distance. Psychic distance is defined as factors such as differences in language, culture, political systems, etc., which disturb the flow of information between the firm and the market (Johanson & Wiedersheim-Paul 1975, p. 308). The path followed by firms following this stage model states that the firms with no exporting activity will start by exporting via an agent (see Figure 2). The sales subsidiaries can follow exporting. The firms can also use the entry modes such as joint ventures, licensing, franchising, and depending on the nature of the firm. The last step into the chain is taken by the wholly owned subsidiaries. 2.2 Network Theory The Uppsala Model has been challenged by the network theorists in recent years, whose fundamental argument is that modern high-technology firms do not exhibit the incremental process; rather they achieve a faster internationalization through the experience and resources of network partners (Mitgwe, 2006). All firms in a market are considered to be embedded in one or more networks via linkages to their suppliers, subcontractors, customers and other market actors (Johanson & Mattson, 1988). According to Emerson (1981), a network is a set of two or more connected business relationships, in which each exchange relation is between business firms that are conceptualized as collective actors. The Network theorists see firm’s internationalization as a natural development from network relationships with foreign individuals and firms (Johanson & Mattson, 1988). Networking is seen as a source of market information and knowledge, which are often acquired in longer terms when there is no relationship with the host country. Therefore, the networks are a bridging mechanism that allows for rapid internationalization (Mitgwe, 2006). The emphasis of the network approach is on bringing the involved parties closer by using the information that the firm acquires by establishing close relationships with customers, suppliers, industry, distributors, regulatory and public agencies as well as other market actors. Relationships are based on mutual trust, knowledge and commitment towards each other. The first step a firm must follow in order to internationalize is the understanding of the market where it operates, its environmental conditions and its relationships (Madsen & Servais, 1997). Johanson and Mattson (1988) argue that as the firms internationalize, the number and strength of relationships brought up in the network increases, helping their international extension. By using trust and increasing commitment in established foreign networks, the firm gains penetration. After having some penetration, firms can gain international integration by using the network and getting involved with other firms in various countries (see Figure 3). When the firm follows these activities (see Figure 3), the relationships are formed by gaining access to the market and its resources. The resources in the network are controlled by the firms itself, as well as other actors involved. A firm requires resources that are controlled by other firms, which can be obtained depending on their position in the network (Johanson & Mattson, 1988). Johanson and Mattson (1988, p. 212) have identified four categories of firms: the 35
  • 3. European Journal of Business and Management www.iiste.org ISSN 2222-1905 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2839 (Online) Vol 4, No.7, 2012 early starter, the lonely international, the late starter and the international among others. The early starter is the firm that has only few relationships in the foreign market. They tend to have little knowledge about foreign market and have little chance to acquire it in their home base country. In order to have knowledge, this kind of firms makes use of agents to enter the foreign market. By using the agent’s experience, the firm will obtain knowledge. In the lonely international category are the firms that are highly internationalized but in a market environment with a domestic focus. They have the capabilities to promote internationalization of the market. This firm has acquired prior knowledge and experience in a foreign market, so it has what it takes to succeed. Later starters are in a market that is already internationalized. The firm has indirect relationship with the network. By making use of those relationships, the firm is able to internationalize. They have the disadvantage over the competitors, since they have more knowledge. The later starters face difficulties to get a place in the existing network. International among others focuses on a highly internationalized firm, where both the market and the firm are highly internationalized. Since they posses knowledge and experience, it’s easier for these firms to set sales subsidiaries, as it needs to coordinate activities in different markets. They are well connected to international networks that provide opportunities. 2.3 International Entrepreneurship Theory (IET) According to Zahra and George (2002), the term “international entrepreneurship” first appeared in a short article by Morrow in 1988. Morrow (1988) suggested that advancements in technology, declining cultural barriers and increasing cultural awareness have opened once-remote foreign markets to all kinds of companies; small firms, new ventures as well as established companies. “Soon after that, McDougall’s (1989) empirical study comparing domestic and international new ventures paved the way for academic study in international entrepreneurship” (McDougall & Oviatt, 2005, p. 537). International entrepreneurship is the study of cross-border entrepreneurial behavior focuses on how actors discover, enact, analyze and exploit opportunities in the creation of new goods or services. McDougall and Oviatt (2000, p. 903) introduced their definition of international entrepreneurship as a “combination of innovative, proactive and risk seeking behavior that crosses national borders and is intended to create value in organizations”. This definition has been one of the most widely accepted ones. Afterwards, they embrace a deeper concept of entrepreneurship, defining it as the discovery, enactment, evaluation, and exploitation of opportunities across national borders to create future goods and services (McDougall & Oviatt, 2005). Discovery refers to finding innovative opportunities. Enactment means to proactively put opportunities into use acquiring a competitive advantage. Evaluation is required to interpret the actions taken by developing experience and knowledge. “International entrepreneurship theory argues that individual and firm entrepreneurial behavior is the basis of foreign market entry” (Mtigwe, 2006, p. 16). Technological advancements, cheap and easy ways to access to information and better communication between the countries have helped firms go abroad. Nowadays firms are gaining internationalization very rapidly, if not by inception as in the case of international new ventures. A modification of McDougall and Oviatt’s (1994) definition of entrepreneurship is given by Stevenson and Jarillo (1990, p. 23), for them entrepreneurship is “a courageous managerial value creation process through which an individual engages innovative, proactive, calculated risk-taking behavior designed to prosecute foreign business opportunities presented by multinational market successes and imperfections for financial and non-financial rewards”. International Entrepreneurship has been receiving a lot of interest from the researchers and the academics. According to IET, the key to internationalization nowadays is the entrepreneur. He is the one that possesses the skills and enough information to measure the opportunities in the market with ability to create and make stable relationships with other firms, suppliers, customers, government and media. He can be the one that has experiential and objective knowledge. Since he is a risk seeker, he is also able to commit the resources in an efficient way to achieve competitive advantage. In the international entrepreneurship theory, the entrepreneur needs to be opportunity seeking and internationally experienced in order to exploit the opportunities he might see in the market and be able to commit to it through entrepreneurial activities that would be translated as entrepreneurial services. 3. Methodology For this study, data were collected from thirty educational consultancy firms based in Dhaka. The sampling technique used is non-probabilistic by nature; more specifically, sample was purposively taken to accommodate a certain 36
  • 4. European Journal of Business and Management www.iiste.org ISSN 2222-1905 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2839 (Online) Vol 4, No.7, 2012 number of firms. Data were collected from different firms at different locations mainly in Dhaka city. Data were collected by using a self-administered questionnaire. Data regarding internationalization process of the firms were collected by using five-point Likert scale and the data collected were assumed to be interval in nature: 1 = not important, 2 = little important, 3 = moderately important, 4 = important, 5 = very important. Time period of the data collection was from 10 January 2012 to 17 February 2012. 4. Objectives The main objective of this study is to gain a better understanding of the internationalization process of the educational consultancy firms in Bangladesh, particularly the application and usefulness of the three main theories: U-model, network theory and international entrepreneurship theory. Some of the additional objectives are: To understand the roles of the three theories in describing, explaining and guiding the internationalization process of the educational consultancy firms in Bangladesh. To identify the aspects of these theories which are most useful to the internationalization process of the selected firms. 5. Data Analysis From the descriptive statistics (See table 1), it can be observed that among the 19 variables, the most significant variable is Foreign Network, which represents both Network Theory and International Entrepreneurship Theory (IET). This variable alone represents highest mean value which is 4.76. The second position in terms of importance is held by three variables: local network, ability to create business network and market knowledge, with mean value of 4.53; the first one belongs to the Network Theory, ability to create business network is related to both Network Theory and IET and the last one is related to all the three theories though its more directly related to Uppsala Model. The third position is held by one variable (mean value 4.10): growth opportunity and it belongs to U-Model directly and to a certain extent to IET since an International Entrepreneur looks for opportunities to expand. The variable ‘entrepreneurial activity’ representing International Entrepreneurship Theory takes up the fourth position with mean value of 4.06. The fifth position is taken by the variable ‘cultural awareness’ (mean value 4.03): belonging to the U-model and referring to the factor known as ‘psychic distance’. The variable ‘managerial motivation’ representing the IET takes the sixth position with mean value of 3.96. The seventh position is taken by the variable ‘market opportunity’ (mean value 3.90): belonging to the U-model directly and once again, to a certain extent to IET since an International Entrepreneur looks for opportunities in different markets. The variable ‘international experience of a management’ representing the IET takes the eighth position with mean value of 3.83. The ninth position is taken by the variable ‘technological advancement’ (mean value 3.76): belonging to the IET. The variable ‘risk seeking behavior of a manager internationally’ representing the IET takes the tenth position with mean value of 3.70. It is evident from the analysis of the top ten variables that IET gets the gold medal and network theory plays an important role while the Uppsala Model incremental steps are not quite present in the internationalization process of the selected firms. It seems that the firms rely heavily on the ability to perform entrepreneurial activities such as creating business networks, looking for new markets and growth opportunities as well as networking both locally and internationally. In terms of foreign Network, 25 firms (about 84%) out of 30 say that this variable is very important for internationalization process (See Figure 4). For managerial motivation, almost 27% says that this is a very important variable and 44 % says that this is important for internationalization process (See Figure 5). Third significant variable is management ability to take the risk. About 40% firms say that this variable is important for internationalization process (See Figure 6). This variable is also important for internationalization process. About 57 % says that this variable is important. Having previous knowledge about international business, helps firms especially to increase the speed of the process. This can be better explained with the suggestion of McDougall and Oviatt (1997). They say that it requires internationally experienced entrepreneurs to internationalize rapidly (see Figure 7). For local network, 37
  • 5. European Journal of Business and Management www.iiste.org ISSN 2222-1905 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2839 (Online) Vol 4, No.7, 2012 about 64% say that this variable is also very important for internationalization process (see Figure 8). In regard to market knowledge, about 64 % say that this variable is very important for internationalization process (see Figure 9). In terms of ability to create business network, about 67 % of the firms say that this variable is very important (see Figure 10). Respectively 30% and almost 34% says that this variable i.e. creativity is very important and important for internationalization process (see Figure 11). About 57 % say that this variable is important for internationalization process (see Figure 12). In terms of Market opportunity, about 34 % say that this is a very important variable and exactly the same number of firms say that this is important for internationalization process (see Figure 13). The numbers of the factor extracted were found to be six (See table 2), and the cumulative percentage of variance explained by all these six factors accounts for almost seventy-three percent (72.713). The first factor can alone explain 18.75% of the total variability. The second factor can alone explain 16.61% of total variability and the first two factors together, can explain 35.72% of the total variability. The third factor can explain alone 13.33% of the total variability and the first three factors together, can explain 48.71% of the total variability. The fourth factor can alone explain 9.31% of the total variability and the first four factors, in combination, can explain 58.02% of the total variability. The fifth factor can alone explain 8.34% of the total variability and the first five factors, in combination, can explain 66.37% of the total variability. The sixth factor can alone explain 6.34% of the total variability and the first six factors together, can explain 72.71% of the total variability. In order to clarify the internationalization process of the buying houses in Bangladesh, the rotated component matrix can be explained. The first factor comprises of item numbers 1, 9, 10, 16, 17 and 18 (See table 3). The second factor comprises of item numbers 4 and 5. The third factor comprises of item numbers 2, 11, 13 and 19. The fourth factor consists of item number 3, 6 and 14. The fifth factor contains item numbers 8, 12 and 15. The sixth factor comprises of item number 7 only. 6. Conclusion From our findings we can say that in most cases IET can successfully explain the internationalization process of the selected firms. It is also evident that these firms rely heavily on their foreign networks and the ability to create networks both locally and internationally and their ability to take risks internationally backed by previous international experience of managers/entrepreneurs. These are the key factors to achieve internationalization in this industry. The Uppsala Model plays its part in the sense that the firms consider market knowledge and market opportunity as an important factor while planning to internationalize. 7. Recommendations and Further Research The study can generate many possibilities for further research. It would be interesting to investigate the internationalization process of firms in different industries and countries separately. In this study we have interviewed a limited number of firms due to lack of time and resources. But it would be a good idea to categorize firms and then study their internationalization process to see if the theories can describe and explain the behavior of those particular groups of firms. We would like to recommend face to face in-depth interviews for further research which enables an interviewer to acquire more data in a reliable way. References Andersen, O., 1993. On the Internationalization Process of Firms: A Critical Analysis. Journal of International Business Studies, 24 (2), pp.209-231. Burt, R., 1997. The contingent value of social capital. Administrative Science Quarterly, 42, pp.339–365. Emerson, R., 1981. Social Exchange Theory. New York: Basic Books. Granovetter, M.S., 1973. The strength of weak ties. American Journal of Sociology, 78 (6), pp.1360–1380. Johanson, J., & Mattson, L.G., 1988. Internationalization in industrial systems: A network approach. In: Hood, N., 38
  • 6. European Journal of Business and Management www.iiste.org ISSN 2222-1905 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2839 (Online) Vol 4, No.7, 2012 Vahlne, J-E., (eds), Strategies in global competition. pp.194-213, London: Croom Helm. Johanson, J., & Vahlne, J-E., 1977. The Internationalization Process of the Firm-A Model of Knowledge Development and Increasing Foreign Market Commitments. Journal of International Business Studies, 8 (1) pp.23-32. Johanson, J., & Wiederscheim-Paul, F., 1975. The internationalization of the firm – four Swedish cases. Journal of Management Studies, 12 (3), pp.305-322. Lindblom, C.E., 1959. The science of muddling through. Public Administration Review, 19 (19), pp.79–88. Madsen, T.K., & Servais, P., 1997. The internationalization of born globals: an evolutionary process?. International Business Review, 6 (6), pp.561-583. McDougall, P.P., 1989. International versus domestic entrepreneurship: New venture strategic behavior and industry structure. Journal of Business Venturing, 4, pp.387-400. McDougall, P.P., & Oviatt, B.M., 1994. Toward a Theory of International New Ventures. Journal of International Business Studies, 25 (1), pp.45-62. McDougall, P.P., & Oviatt, B.M., 2000. International entrepreneurship: The intersection of two research paths. Academy of Management Journal, 43, pp.902– 908. McDougall, P.P., & Oviatt, B.M., 2005. Defining international entrepreneurship and modeling the speed of internationalization. Entrepreneurship Theory & Practice, pp.537-553. Mitgwe, B., 2006. Theoretical Milestones in International Business: The Journey to International Entrepreneurship Theory. Journal of International Entrepreneurship, 4, pp.5-25. Morrow, J.F., 1988. International entrepreneurship: A new growth opportunity. New Management, 3, pp.59-61. Stevenson, H.H., & Jarillo, J.C., 1990. A paradigm of entrepreneurship: entrepreneurial management. Strategic Management Journal, 11 (Summer Special Issue), pp.17-27. Zahra, S.A., & George, G., 2002. International Entrepreneurship: The current status of the field and future research agenda. In: Hitt, M.A., Ireland, R.D., Camp, S.M., & Sexton, D.L., Eds, Strategic entrepreneurship: Creating a new mindset, pp.255-288, Oxford, UK: Blackwell Publishers. Figure 1: Uppsala Model, state and change aspects (Johanson & Vahlne 1977) Figure 2: Uppsala Model process, adaptation from the theory. 39
  • 7. European Journal of Business and Management www.iiste.org ISSN 2222-1905 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2839 (Online) Vol 4, No.7, 2012 Figure 3: Network approach to internationalization, Johanson and Mattson (1988). Foreign Network moderately imoprtant Foreign Network important Cumulative Frequency Percent Valid Percent Percent Valid very important 25 83.3 83.3 83.3 important 3 10.0 10.0 93.3 moderately imoprtant 2 6.7 6.7 100.0 very important Total 30 100.0 100.0 Figure 4: Foreign Network Managerial motivation Moderately important Managerial motivation Very important Cumulative Frequency Percent Valid Percent Percent Valid Very important 8 26.7 26.7 26.7 Important 13 43.3 43.3 70.0 Moderately important 9 30.0 30.0 100.0 Important Total 30 100.0 100.0 Figure 5: Managerial motivation management ability to take risk Little important Very important management ability to take risk Cumulative Frequency Percent Valid Percent Percent Moderately important Valid Very important 6 20.0 20.0 20.0 Important 12 40.0 40.0 60.0 Moderately important 8 26.7 26.7 86.7 Important Little important 4 13.3 13.3 100.0 Total 30 100.0 100.0 Figure 6: Management ability to take risk 40
  • 8. European Journal of Business and Management www.iiste.org ISSN 2222-1905 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2839 (Online) Vol 4, No.7, 2012 International Experience of a management Little important Moderately important Very important International Experience of a management Cumulative Frequency Percent Valid Percent Percent Valid Very important 5 16.7 16.7 16.7 Important 17 56.7 56.7 73.3 Moderately important 6 20.0 20.0 93.3 Little important 2 6.7 6.7 100.0 Important Total 30 100.0 100.0 Figure 7: International Experience of a management Local Network Little important Moderately important Important Local Network Cumulative Frequency Percent Valid Percent Percent Valid Very important 19 63.3 63.3 63.3 Important 9 30.0 30.0 93.3 Very important Moderately important 1 3.3 3.3 96.7 Little important 1 3.3 3.3 100.0 Total 30 100.0 100.0 Figure 8: Local Network market knowledge Moderately important Important market knowledge Cumulative Frequency Percent Valid Percent Percent Valid Very important 19 63.3 63.3 63.3 Very important Important 8 26.7 26.7 90.0 Moderately important 3 10.0 10.0 100.0 Total 30 100.0 100.0 Figure 9: Market knowledge Ability to create business network Moderately important Important Ability to create business network Cumulative Frequency Percent Valid Percent Percent Valid Very important 20 66.7 66.7 66.7 Important 6 20.0 20.0 86.7 Very important Moderately important 4 13.3 13.3 100.0 Total 30 100.0 100.0 Figure 10: Ability to create business network 41
  • 9. European Journal of Business and Management www.iiste.org ISSN 2222-1905 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2839 (Online) Vol 4, No.7, 2012 Creativity Creativity not important Cumulative very important little important Frequency Percent Valid Percent Percent Valid very important 9 30.0 30.0 30.0 important 10 33.3 33.3 63.3 moderately important moderately important 4 13.3 13.3 76.7 little important 3 10.0 10.0 86.7 not important 4 13.3 13.3 100.0 important Total 30 100.0 100.0 Figure 11: Creativity Risk seeking behavior of a manager internationally Not important Little important Risk seeking behavior of a manager internationally Moderately important Very important Cumulative Frequency Percent Valid Percent Percent Valid Very important 4 13.3 13.3 13.3 Important 17 56.7 56.7 70.0 Moderately important 6 20.0 20.0 90.0 Little important 2 6.7 6.7 96.7 Not important 1 3.3 3.3 100.0 Important Total 30 100.0 100.0 Figure 12: Risk seeking behavior of a manager internationally Market Opportunity little important moderately important Market Opportunity very important Cumulative Frequency Percent Valid Percent Percent Valid very important 10 33.3 33.3 33.3 important 10 33.3 33.3 66.7 moderately important 7 23.3 23.3 90.0 little important 3 10.0 10.0 100.0 important Total 30 100.0 100.0 Figure 13: Market Opportunity 42
  • 10. European Journal of Business and Management www.iiste.org ISSN 2222-1905 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2839 (Online) Vol 4, No.7, 2012 Descriptive Statistics N Range Minimum Maximum Sum Mean Std. Deviation Variance Foreign Network 30 2.00 3.00 5.00 143.00 4.7667 .56832 .323 Local Network 30 3.00 2.00 5.00 136.00 4.5333 .73030 .533 Ability to create business 30 2.00 3.00 5.00 136.00 4.5333 .73030 .533 network market knowledge 30 2.00 3.00 5.00 136.00 4.5333 .68145 .464 Growth Opportunity 30 2.00 3.00 5.00 123.00 4.1000 .60743 .369 Entreprenurial Activities 30 3.00 2.00 5.00 122.00 4.0667 .78492 .616 Cultural Awarness 30 3.00 2.00 5.00 121.00 4.0333 .80872 .654 Managerial motivation 30 2.00 3.00 5.00 119.00 3.9667 .76489 .585 Market Opportunity 30 3.00 2.00 5.00 117.00 3.9000 .99481 .990 International Experience 30 3.00 2.00 5.00 115.00 3.8333 .79148 .626 of a management Technological 30 4.00 1.00 5.00 113.00 3.7667 1.19434 1.426 advancement Risk seeking behavior of 30 4.00 1.00 5.00 111.00 3.7000 .91539 .838 a manager internationally management ability to 30 3.00 2.00 5.00 110.00 3.6667 .95893 .920 take risk Entrepreneurial activities 30 3.00 2.00 5.00 108.00 3.6000 .96847 .938 of a Management Creativity 30 4.00 1.00 5.00 107.00 3.5667 1.38174 1.909 Size of a firm 30 3.00 2.00 5.00 105.00 3.5000 1.07479 1.155 Age of Firm 30 4.00 1.00 5.00 96.00 3.2000 .99655 .993 Similar Business Culture 30 4.00 1.00 5.00 89.00 2.9667 1.29943 1.689 Similar Market 30 4.00 1.00 5.00 77.00 2.5667 1.43078 2.047 Valid N (listwise) 30 Table 1 Total Variance Explained Initial Eigenvalues Extraction Sums of Squared Loadings Component Total % of Variance Cumulative % Total % of Variance Cumulative % 1 3.563 18.755 18.755 3.563 18.755 18.755 2 3.157 16.617 35.372 3.157 16.617 35.372 3 2.534 13.338 48.710 2.534 13.338 48.710 4 1.770 9.318 58.028 1.770 9.318 58.028 5 1.585 8.345 66.373 1.585 8.345 66.373 6 1.205 6.340 72.713 1.205 6.340 72.713 7 .983 5.172 77.884 8 .827 4.352 82.237 9 .753 3.964 86.200 10 .656 3.454 89.655 11 .609 3.206 92.861 12 .387 2.038 94.899 13 .285 1.500 96.399 14 .202 1.062 97.462 15 .152 .801 98.262 16 .136 .718 98.980 17 .105 .551 99.531 18 .067 .351 99.883 19 .022 .117 100.000 Extraction Method: Principal Component Analysis. Table 2 43
  • 11. European Journal of Business and Management www.iiste.org ISSN 2222-1905 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2839 (Online) Vol 4, No.7, 2012 Component 1 2 3 4 5 6 (1) Similar Market -.673 (2) Market Opportunity .673 (3) Age of Firm .677 (4) Similar Business Culture .725 (5) Creativity .714 (6) Foreign Network -.500 (7) Entrepreneurial Activities -.487 (8) International Experience -.519 of a management (9) Entrepreneurial activities -.574 of a Management (10) Management ability to .582 take risk (11) Risk seeking behavior of -.653 a manager internationally (12) Growth Opportunity .478 (13) Market Knowledge .596 (14) Size of the Firm .631 (15) Cultural Awareness .628 (16) Local Network .428 (17) Ability to Create .697 Business Network (18) Managerial Motivation .529 (19) Technological -.552 Advancement Table 3: Rotated Component Matrix 44
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