A Collaborative Approach to Fostering Management Talent Strength for Small Technology and Technical Enterprises

Mojgan Mohtashami
Thomas Marlowe, Seton Hall University
Vassilka Kirova, Njit
Carol Marlowe, (No Affiliation)

ABSTRACT
Small businesses are an engine for productivity and innovation in the US and world economies. But small technology firms also have challenges. With few managers or executives, they are faced with a dilemma: compete both technically and commercially with large firms through incorporating new developments and leveraging new management approaches, while carrying out everyday responsibilities and managing personnel. The need to keep up-to-date and be competitive can obviate the advantages of lean, agile management, such as self-organizing teams and effective management styles that boost morale and encourage innovation. We propose collaborations between small enterprises-in related fields but not directly competing - in an ongoing "loose" joint venture to enhance and develop the firm's knowledge base of technical, management, and other capabilities, with the possibility of further collaboration in other areas.

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Updated 03/19/2014