Born Global standard establishers identification of a new research field and contribution to network theory

Abstract

The academic interest in International Entrepreneurship and Born Globals on the one hand; and in standardization and standards on the other hand is strong and growing, but there has been hardly any linkage between the two research streams. This paper shows how Born Globals can successfully establish their technologies as de facto standards. Based on 22 case studies and a new success factors model, the paper also unveils different contributions of networks for Born Globals. Additionally, specific networking patterns in relation to technical networks were found. Four firm types were identified: `System Leaders', `Cross Platform Solutions', `Platform Servants' and `Platform Autarkics'. Based on the findings implications for research and managers of born global firms are formulated.