Paper info

The Internet and Internationalization: Nova Scotia SMEs

Kevin Donovan and Philip Rosson

The paper was published at the 17th IMP-conference in Oslo, Norway in 2001.

Internationalization processes in the context of the Interneteconomy are examined. Case study research was conducted with sixNova Scotia SMEs. Findings from this exploratory study include(1) stage-based theories do not reflect company experience, (2)multi-domestic marketing strategies appear dominant, and (3)location and country-of-origin effects persist, in the onlineenvironment. Thus, while the Internet may offer global reach,commerce is still conducted locally. The paper also notes anumber of challenges faced by Internet-based companies as theyexpand their business interests, as well as ideas for futureresearch.