Knowledge Assimilation Processes of Rapidly Internationalising Firms: Longitudinal case studies of Scottish SMEs

Purpose: The accumulation of knowledge and learning by firms has been identified as critical to their internationalisation. This article explores knowledge assimilation processes of rapidly internationalising SMEs. Design: This is a qualitative enquiry in two stages. First, four case-studies were selected from firms that were participating on an internationalisation programme run by Scottish Enterprise, the regional development agency. Data collection involved semi structured interviews with CEOs and programme providers, and archival data. Second, two focus groups were held with six CEOs participating in the programme. Findings: Our findings indicate that knowledge sharing is important for rapidly internationalising SMEs and that firms adopted high levels of formality in assimilating knowledge. Two key aspects of formality were identified as important; formal planned events to share explicit and tacit knowledge and the codification of tacit to explicit knowledge. Knowledge may be assimilated less formally by the retention of tacit knowledge as tacit, while utilising elements of formality. We find that learning for internationalisation can be transferred to support domestic growth Practical implications: It is important for firms to develop appropriate knowledge assimilation processes within their management systems to support internationalisation. The CEO and management