Indicators for Establishing SME Product Development Networks

Abstract

The results of research into SME product development networks are presented. The paper provides insight to the process of establishing such networks and the use of indicators in the design and monitoring of this process. It is based on five extensive case studies and in addition on several in-depth interviews with SME entrepreneurs and business managers. The practical experiences in these case studies and the indicators used by practitioners in network development are briefly described. These experiences together with theoretical insights were combined into a comprehensive set of indicators, describing the progress and effectiveness of the network formation and operation process. The discussion closed with more generic conclusions about establishing inter-organisational

networks and monitoring network development processes in practice. Implications for further research have also been put forward.