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Digital Integration and Entrepreneurial Success: Examining Causation and Effectuation in Rural South China

Author

Listed:
  • Ningyu Bei

    (South China University of Technology)

  • Weining Li

    (South China University of Technology)

  • Liebing Cao

    (South China University of Technology)

Abstract

This research paper delves into the fascinating interplay between causation, effectuation, and digital integration within the sphere of entrepreneurship, particularly accentuated in the rural regions of South China. Amidst the complexities and uncertainties characteristic of these areas, entrepreneurs exhibit remarkable adaptability and resourcefulness. The study aims to unravel the mechanisms underlying their success, focusing on their navigational skills in ambiguous situations and their strategic use of digital technologies. The entrepreneurial landscape in rural South China presents a unique fusion of traditional settings and advanced digital tools. Entrepreneurs leverage these technologies for information access, operational optimization, and market expansion. Our paper enriches the discourse on entrepreneurship by dissecting the relationships between causation, effectuation, and digital integration in this distinctive context. We observe the arduous realities of rural South China’s business environment, marked by market volatility, financial constraints, and infrastructure inadequacies. Despite these challenges, local entrepreneurs demonstrate an impressive success rate, surpassing national averages. This paper investigates their tactics for overcoming unpredictability and thriving under adverse conditions, highlighting their flexible and responsive entrepreneurial traits. Through extensive interviews and case studies, this research explores the cognitive processes, decision-making techniques, and resource management of these entrepreneurs. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the complex interaction between causation, effectuation, and digital integration, offering valuable insights for scholars and practitioners in entrepreneurial success in unpredictable environments.

Suggested Citation

  • Ningyu Bei & Weining Li & Liebing Cao, 2024. "Digital Integration and Entrepreneurial Success: Examining Causation and Effectuation in Rural South China," Journal of the Knowledge Economy, Springer;Portland International Center for Management of Engineering and Technology (PICMET), vol. 15(4), pages 19327-19353, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:jknowl:v:15:y:2024:i:4:d:10.1007_s13132-024-01870-8
    DOI: 10.1007/s13132-024-01870-8
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