Family firm succession through the lens of technology intelligence

Abstract

Succession is often a critical event in the lifecycle of any organization. Consequently, an extensive body of literature explores family firm succession, and includes studies on integrated succession frameworks. Notwithstanding the large, illuminating body of literature, we believe that family firm succession is worth a fresh reexamination and consolidation to translate the findings into a powerful planning and communication tool, especially as all firms are facing a ‘new normal’ and their leaders are seeking novel perspectives and approaches amidst the COVID-19 disruption. We thus offer a systemic and systematic framework for family firm succession planning, incorporating ideas from the technology intelligence literature. Since relationship building can ease the succession process and relationships are built through communication, we also present a succession roadmap as a communication tool that can assist in making this process part of the regular business routines.