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Which networking strategy improves ICT startup companies' technical efficiency?

Author

Listed:
  • Inyoung Park
  • Jieon Lee
  • Jungwoo Nam
  • Yuri Jo
  • Daeho Lee

Abstract

Information and communications technology (ICT) startups, which are relatively smaller than large companies, need to choose efficiency‐oriented networking strategies to efficiently utilize resources. However, the effects of networking strategies on ICT startups' efficiency have been relatively neglected. This study explores which networking strategies are effective for ICT startups. We compare the efficiencies of ICT startups with different interfirm networking strategies: formal networking, informal networking, and noncooperative networking. Technical efficiencies of each strategic group were measured using stochastic frontier analysis, and efficiencies among groups were compared using meta‐frontier analysis. Our results reveal that the noncooperative group has the highest technology gap ratio, followed by the informal and formal cooperative networking groups. This study presents the optimal networking strategy for ICT startups and highlights that interfirm networking is not essential for enhancing the overall competitiveness to ICT startups.

Suggested Citation

  • Inyoung Park & Jieon Lee & Jungwoo Nam & Yuri Jo & Daeho Lee, 2022. "Which networking strategy improves ICT startup companies' technical efficiency?," Managerial and Decision Economics, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 43(6), pages 2434-2443, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:mgtdec:v:43:y:2022:i:6:p:2434-2443
    DOI: 10.1002/mde.3536
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    2. Shujaat Abbas & Faheem Ur Rehman & Shabeer Khan & Mohd Ziaur Rehman & Wadi B. Alonazi & Abul Ala Noman, 2022. "Crowding-Out Effect of Natural Resources on Domestic Investment: The Importance of Information Communication and Technology (ICT) and Control of Corruption in the Middle East and Central Asia," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(20), pages 1-16, October.
    3. Choi Jong Woo & Park Chankook, 2024. "Panel Technical Efficiency of Korean Companies in the Energy Sector based on Digital Capabilities," Economics - The Open-Access, Open-Assessment Journal, De Gruyter, vol. 18(1), pages 1-17.
    4. Nzubechukwu Obi & Amadi Peter Onyekachi, 2025. "Evaluating The Influence of Networking Strategies on Start-Up Growth: Evidence from Anambra State, Nigeria," Journal of Economics and Behavioral Studies, AMH International, vol. 17(3), pages 74-82.

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