Thesis
The corporate venturing process of large corporations : a critical realist perspective
- Creator
- Awarding institution
- University of Strathclyde
- Date of award
- 2007
- Thesis identifier
- T11927
- Qualification Level
- Qualification Name
- Department, School or Faculty
- Abstract
- Corporate venturing (CV) involves entrepreneurial efforts and activities undertaken by large corporations to create new ventures. The objective of the study was to explore how CV was initiated and implemented in large corporations, focusing on its impact on the organisational context. The study used three theoretical perspectives (evolutionary, contingency and agency theory) to examine the CV process. Two levels of analysis guided the empirical enquiry: the CV unit and the corporation as a whole. Driven by the nature of the research questions and the philosophical influences of critical realism, a qualitative research methodology and a multi case-study research design were employed. Four corporations and their CV units were theoretically sampled and examined. The sample comprised large, UK multinationals, involved in CV activities between 1999 and 2003. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 managers, comprising those directly involved in CV and senior corporate managers. Secondary sources were consulted to allow data triangulation. Analytic induction facilitated the data analysis and interpretation process within each case. Cross-case analysis allowed analytical generalisation. The study identified the interaction and co-existence of strategy and entrepreneurship sub-processes in explaining the dynamics of the CV process. The study showed that the initiation of CV activities is shaped by the existence of micro processes transforming a stimulus (opportunity) into venturing intent (decision). The dynamics of the relationship between the corporation and the CV unit, and the role of emotions in the CV process were also identified and explained. The key conclusion was that where alignment and adjustment mechanisms to monitor and resolve tensions and conflicts between the corporation and the CV unit were absent, the effect was to restrict the realisation and emergence of positive outcomes for corporations from their involvement in CV activities.
- Resource Type
- DOI
- EThOS ID
- uk.bl.ethos.444420
- Date Created
- 2007
- Former identifier
- 769579
Relations
Items
| Thumbnail | Title | Date Uploaded | Visibility | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
PDF for thesis T11927 | 2021-07-02 | Public | Download |