International activities of knowledge-intensive small- and medium-sized enterprises The example of an open source software firm

摘要

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to develop a framework that explains international activitiesrnof open source software (OSS) firms.rnDesign/methodology/approach - This paper reviews relevant literature related to internationalrnoperations of knowledge-intensive firms, especially in the software industry. Theoretical developmentrnis based here on a combination of the network approach, international new venture theory andrninward-outward internationalization.rnFindings - The findings in this study suggest that the international activities of OSS firms can berndivided into project activities and business activities. Project activities include inward and outwardrnlinkages, and partner identification. Business activities include domestic and partner networkrnactivities that can lead to international business as well.rnResearch implications - For scholars, the framework provides a new approach to explain manyrninternational activities of OSS firms by integrating three international business theories. In addition,rnit provides good starting point for further empirical examination.rnPractical implications - The framework helps managers gain a better understanding of complexrncircumstances embedded into the international activities of OSS firms. With that betterrnunderstanding, the managers can focus their activities, which helps further to improve their firms'rncompetitiveness engendered by the international activities in the OSS development.rnOriginality/value - The framework developed in this study is believed to be the first seriousrnattempt to provide a deeper theoretical understanding of international activities of OSS firms.