KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS ACROSS DEVELOPMENTAL PHASES IN SMALL ENTERPRISES
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37231/apj.2025.8.2.679Abstract
Abstract: The study outlines the knowledge requirements (needs) across developmental phases in micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). Knowledge specific to different phases of business development has not received significant empirical attention in the MSMEs knowledge domain. The paper employs a qualitative research design and interviews 32 MSME owners in Cape Town, Durban, and Johannesburg, South African cities. The thematic content analysis technique was applied with Atlas.ti. The outcomes generated three dimensions of knowledge relevant to the pre-start, startup, and post-startup phases, including the content and medium of acquisition, with a link to established knowledge domains. The paper outlines key knowledge areas that nurture intention, capacity, and capability to transform startup ideation into successful launch, growth, survival, and sustainability. Studies on the knowledge requirements of MSMEs across different developmental phases are relevant yet scarce. Knowledge has been generalised across domains in established literature, but this study aligns knowledge with business needs across developmental phases or stages. This approach is not common in the literature. This study is original and relevant to small businesses with limited resources. The outcomes will inform decision-making at the business level regarding capacity development needs, support the design of business policies and programmes, and guide researchers' endeavours to test the derived variables and replicate the study.
Keywords: Explicit; Implicit; Knowledge Requirements; Sustainability; Tacit
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