The social dimensions of entrepreneurship

Citation

(2006), "The social dimensions of entrepreneurship", Strategic Direction, Vol. 22 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/sd.2006.05622aaf.007

The social dimensions of entrepreneurship

The social dimensions of entrepreneurship

Ulhøi JPTechnovation, (UK), Aug 2005 Vol 25 No 8, Start page: 939, No of pages: 8

Purpose – To conceptualize the social dimensions of entrepreneurship. Design/methodology/approach – Reviews past research into management development and entrepreneurship, observing a focus on large firms and personal characteristics of entrepreneurs. Concentrates, in this study, on theoretical entrepreneurial aspects concerning knowledge-intensive small-to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that are based on ongoing empirical studies. Distinguishes intrapreneurship as organizational entrepreneurial effort as opposed to that by an individual – spin-offs often being a combination of both. Discourses on new venture creation and survival, exploitation, and interested parties. Goes beyond economic contractual relationships to explore socially-driven dimensions i.e. social capital, trust, personal networks, relationship ties, and embeddedness. Asserts these can deliver support, knowledge, and complementary resources. Observes other research disciplines (human resource management) taking an interest in entrepreneurship content. Findings – Concludes, inter alia, that viewing entrepreneurship and SMEs from the viewpoint of socially embedded structures and activities provides additional insights. Research limitations/implications – Considers much empirical work on the social framework discussed is still required. Practical implications – Declares the study justifies an entrepreneur spending time to develop social networks via a multifaceted stance. Originality/value – Explores the entrepreneurial dimensions of SMEs from a social theoretical viewpoint.Classification(s): Operations and Production Management – StrategyStyle: Conceptual paperISSN: 0166-4972

Keywords: Social theories, Entrepreneurs, Strategy, Individual behaviour, Organizational behaviour, Entrepreneurship, Small to medium-sized enterprises