Network-based market orientation knowledge for internationalization of disruptive innovation in SMEs

Purpose: This study explores network-based market orientation (MO) knowledge development for internationalization of disruptive innovation (DI) by small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Methodology: To manage knowledge development for DI internationalization, a business model was applied to a single case study. The case company participated in a series of workshops and allowed on-site visits and interviews for a period of two years in a European Union funded project. The workshops helped the SME to gather MO and networking knowledge, and then apply that knowledge internally in the organization and externally, in interactions with suppliers, buyers, and other members of the buyer chain. Findings: Although technological and market efforts usually proceed separately, this study shows that technical and MO knowledge gathering activities can go together through external and internal networking. Research limitations/implications: To overcome the limitation of one case study, several SMEs can be included in a future research to make a comparative analysis. A further study can investigate how technical and market networks can be integrated in the knowledge development process to speed up internationalization. Managers can learn to internationalize DI by collaborating, knowledge sharing, and networking with other SMEs, suppliers, and firms in the buyer chain. Originality: The current study contributes to DI literature through highlighting knowledge generation in SMEs from a process perspective, as well as integrating technical and MO efforts for internationalization. Keywords: knowledge development, disruptive innovation, market orientation, network, internationalization.