Week 46: Moen, O., & Servais : Born gradually or gradual global

Question 1

What is the main focus of the paper “Born Global or Gradual Global?”

Answer 1

It compares traditional gradual internationalization with the born global model and examines how SMEs expand internationally.

Question 2

What is the Uppsala Model of internationalization?

Answer 2

A model where firms expand gradually, starting domestically, then entering nearby markets, and later expanding to distant markets as they gain experience and reduce uncertainty.

Question 3

What are Innovation-Related Internationalization Models?

Answer 3

Models that treat internationalization as an innovation process where firms progress through stages like awareness, experimental exports, and committed operations.

Question 4

What is the Born Global Model?

Answer 4

A model where firms start exporting within their first two years, focusing on niche markets and advanced technologies, skipping gradual steps.

Question 5

How do born global firms differ from traditional gradual internationalization firms?

Answer 5

Born global firms start exporting early, have higher export intensity, broader geographic reach, and adapt faster to global opportunities.

Question 6

What are the limitations of traditional internationalization models for SMEs?

Answer 6

They fail to explain why many firms skip gradual steps and succeed globally right from the start.

Question 7

What can managers of new firms do to succeed globally?

Answer 7

Leverage niche markets and advanced technologies to go global quickly.

Question 8

What is a key difference between gradual and born global models?

Answer 8

Gradual models emphasize slow, incremental learning, while born global firms skip steps and internationalize immediately.

Question 9

What does the paper suggest for future research on SME internationalization?

Answer 9

Focus on how early internationalization impacts long-term success and create models tailored for new and older firms