Strategic Analysis and Export Behaviour of SMEs

Abstract

An empirical study was conducted in the aerospace sector in order to analyse the relationship between strategic analysis and export behaviour of SMEs. CEOs' perceptions of the environment were measured using the four traditional SWOT model dimensions: strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. Results from 132 Canadian and 141 American SMEs show interesting differences between the two countries. It appears that Canadian managers are more prone to react to external opportunities whereas their American counterparts adopt a more defensive behaviour and primarily adjust their export behaviour in view of perceived weaknesses and threats. Globally, strategic analysis has a greater impact on export behaviour in Canada than in the USA.