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The Governance Paradox: Preferences of Small Vulnerable Firms in the Homebuilding Industry

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  • James R. Dewald
  • Jeremy Hall
  • James J. Chrisman
  • Franz W. Kellermanns

Abstract

This article explores the variables that drive small firms to choose quasi–integration as an alternative to vertical integration in situations of high asset frequency. Drawing on transaction cost theory and institutional approaches, we develop and test several hypotheses regarding quasi–integration among homebuilders and land developers in a major Canadian city. Our focus is on the preferences of small, vulnerable firms operating in an environment where quasi–integration has been institutionalized as a trusted form of governance. The findings indicate that the preference for quasi–integration is driven by asset specificity, bargaining power, and opportunistic expectations, supporting a paradoxical view that small, vulnerable firms pursue both efficiency and institutional legitimacy in making governance choices regarding large dominant suppliers.

Suggested Citation

  • James R. Dewald & Jeremy Hall & James J. Chrisman & Franz W. Kellermanns, 2007. "The Governance Paradox: Preferences of Small Vulnerable Firms in the Homebuilding Industry," Entrepreneurship Theory and Practice, , vol. 31(2), pages 279-297, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:entthe:v:31:y:2007:i:2:p:279-297
    DOI: 10.1111/j.1540-6520.2007.00173.x
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    Cited by:

    1. Jim Dewald & Frances Bowen, 2010. "Storm Clouds and Silver Linings: Responding to Disruptive Innovations Through Cognitive Resilience," Entrepreneurship Theory and Practice, , vol. 34(1), pages 197-218, January.
    2. MahdaviMazdeh, Hossein & Saunders, Chad & Hawkins, Richard William & Dewald, Jim, 2021. "Reconsidering the dynamics of innovation in the natural resource industries," Resources Policy, Elsevier, vol. 72(C).
    3. Memili, Esra & Chrisman, James J. & Chua, Jess H. & Chang, Erick P.C. & Kellermanns, Franz W., 2011. "The determinants of family firms' subcontracting: A transaction cost perspective," Journal of Family Business Strategy, Elsevier, vol. 2(1), pages 26-33, March.
    4. Meijer, Rick & Buitelaar, Edwin, 2023. "What drives developers? Understanding vertical (dis)integration strategies in the land development process," Land Use Policy, Elsevier, vol. 131(C).

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