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Impact of cooperation flexibility on innovation flexibility in SMEs

Author

Listed:
  • Eva Tomášková

    (Masaryk University, Czechia)

  • Lucie Kaòovská

    (Brno University of Technology, Czechia)

Abstract

Research background: Flexibility has become a possible means for manufacturing companies to better compete in competitive markets. Furthermore, innovations are perceived as an important factor in company strategy, which can differentiate the company from the competition. Purpose of the article: This present study investigates the problems of cooperation flexibility and innovation flexibility in manufacturing companies among electrical engineering companies in the Czech Republic. The aim of this paper is to identify the impact of cooperation flexibility on innovation flexibility in small and medium-sized manufacturing companies. Methods: A questionnaire addressed to SMEs in the form of the Likert scale was prepared to gather information about cooperation flexibility and innovation flexibility. All parts of the questionnaire were tested using Cronbach Alpha. Spearman correlation and regression analysis were used for analysis. Findings & value added: The results of the research show that external cooperation flexibility and internal cooperation flexibility is related to innovation flexibility in SMEs. Results of the research show that there is a positive relationship 1) between external cooperation flexibility and innovation flexibility and 2) between innovation flexibility and business performance at SMEs. The findings of the research contribute to an understanding of the relationship between cooperation flexibility, innovation flexibility and also innovation performance. The novelty value of this paper lies in its perception of flexibility as having two parts, namely external (with suppliers and customers) and internal cooperation flexibility. In addition, innovation flexibility was investigated in two fields, product, and accompanying services to products. The view mentioned provides a complex view of flexibility.

Suggested Citation

  • Eva Tomášková & Lucie Kaòovská, 2022. "Impact of cooperation flexibility on innovation flexibility in SMEs," Equilibrium. Quarterly Journal of Economics and Economic Policy, Institute of Economic Research, vol. 17(2), pages 533-566, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:pes:ierequ:v:17:y:2022:i:2:p:533-566
    DOI: 10.24136/eq.2022.019
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    cooperation flexibility; innovation flexibility; electrical engineering companies; high-tech manufacturers; SMEs;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • M14 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - Corporate Culture; Diversity; Social Responsibility
    • L94 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Transportation and Utilities - - - Electric Utilities

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