A knowledge-based perspective on the professionalization of SMEs: a systematic literature review and future research directions
Journal of Knowledge Management
ISSN: 1367-3270
Article publication date: 9 May 2023
Issue publication date: 5 January 2024
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to provide a synthesis of theoretical and empirical work related to the professionalization of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from a knowledge-based perspective.
Design/methodology/approach
A systematic literature review consisting of three major steps of planning, conducting and reporting is conducted. Papers are identified, selected and deductively coded. Quantitative and qualitative methods are used to analyze the papers. The finalized list includes 78 papers and 48 journals, with the oldest paper published in 1980 and the most recent papers published in 2022.
Findings
The findings showed that the empirical works (n = 69) outnumbered the conceptual works (n = 9). Most papers focused on the organizational level of analysis and identified causal conditions, modes, intervening conditions and consequences. A multidimensional characteristic of professionalization emerged inductively as an additional attribute.
Originality/value
This paper provides a synthesis of the current literature and offers a research agenda to academics and practitioners interested in the professionalization of SMEs from a knowledge-based perspective.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
Funding: This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sectors.
Citation
Mariano, S. (2024), "A knowledge-based perspective on the professionalization of SMEs: a systematic literature review and future research directions", Journal of Knowledge Management, Vol. 28 No. 1, pp. 181-209. https://doi.org/10.1108/JKM-11-2022-0873
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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