School of Business publications portal
This portal is no longer updated. Aalto University School of Business Master's Theses are now in the Aaltodoc publication archive (Aalto University institutional repository)
School of Business | Department of Marketing and Management | Organization and Management | 2009
Thesis number: 12159
Strategic agility in a small knowledge intensive business services company: Case Swot Consulting
Author: Santala, Maarit
Title: Strategic agility in a small knowledge intensive business services company: Case Swot Consulting
Year: 2009  Language: eng
Department: Department of Marketing and Management
Academic subject: Organization and Management
Index terms: johtaminen; management; organisaatio; organization; strategia; strategy; palvelut; service; konsultointi; consulting; asiantuntijat; specialists; pk-yritykset; smes
Pages: 123
Full text:
» hse_ethesis_12159.pdf pdf  size:2 MB (1073145)
Key terms: Knowledge intensive business services (KIBS), small and medium sized companies, management consulting, strategic agility
Abstract:
Objectives of the research: The main objective of this research was to find out whether strategic agility is a relevant aspect when discussing small KIBS. Secondary objectives were to identify the factors of strategic agility in small KIBS, as well as to give recommendations to Swot Consulting on how to reach strategic agility.

Methodology: This is a single case research and the data collection methods were semi-structured interviews, observation and analysis of existing background information provided by Swot Consulting. The data was analysed by the means of analytic induction.

Key findings of the study: It is valid to discuss strategic agility in small KIBS, and when compared with big corporations, there are some special aspects that need to be taken into consideration. The most important aspect is the role of individuals, which is very much emphasised in small KIBS. Also the challenges related to managing and motivating smart and highly educated people need to be taken into consideration.
Electronic publications are subject to copyright. The publications can be read freely and printed for personal use. Use for commercial purposes is forbidden.