Small Firm Performance in the Context of Agent and Structure: A Cross Cultural Comparison in the Tourist Accommodation Sector

Abstract

The content of this chapter is presented within a framework that firstly investigates structural dimensions as presented in the form of industry and locale. Relative to the significance for performance, the industry context is investigated, and the countries in which the small firms are embedded compared and contrasted. Discussion then moves to the organizational setting of the small firms and critical exploration of the key constituent elements of structure, behaviour and resources impacting on agent's actions. Where appropriate, quotations from owner-managers are incorporated to illustrate key issues. Where these appear either 'A' for Aracaju (Brazil) and 'G' for Glasglow (Scotland) is inserted in brackets to refer to its city source. Finally, findings pertaining to both structure and agent are synthesized to provide a foundation of understanding relative to small urban tourism firm performance that incorporates international dimensions.