Professional Documents
Culture Documents
A R T I C L E I N F O A B S T R A C T
Keywords: Building theory is necessary to advance international business (IB) and international entrepreneurship (IE)
Gioia Methodology research. Grounded theory approaches have been shown to be appropriate for building theory in many different
Grounded approach fields, including IB and IE. The Gioia Methodology is a qualitative approach to developing a grounded theory that
Qualitative research
can meet standards of rigor associated with trustworthy research demanded by top journals. In this paper we
Theory development
provide a brief introduction to this methodology by outlining its fundamental philosophical and methodological
underpinnings, especially concerning its three main procedural pillars: a) developing a data structure; b)
developing a grounded model based on that data structure; and c) presenting findings in a convincing narrative.
We present examples of selected papers that have employed the Gioia Methodology in IB and IE settings.
* Correspondence to: Professor of International Business Department of Economics and Management University of Pavia - IT Via San Felice, 5 27100 Pavia, Italy.
E-mail address: g.magnani@unipv.it (G. Magnani).
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ibusrev.2022.102097
Received 1 December 2022; Accepted 2 December 2022
Available online 17 December 2022
0969-5931/© 2022 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
G. Magnani and D. Gioia International Business Review 32 (2023) 102097
Research Methods, which quickly became widespread, as testified by researchers. We researchers tend to underplay the knowledgeability of
Reay et al. (2019) review of qualitative/interpretive articles in the people at work and presume that we know more than they do. We do
Academy of Management Journal: these authors found that the GM had a not. So, we should not impose that assumption on other people who are
strong influence on 2014–2018 published papers. Adoption of the probably more knowledgeable about the work they are doing than we
approach has only accelerated since then. are. But we researchers are not stupid, either. It is possible, even likely,
Compared to unstructured single or multiple case study designs with that we could understand something about the experience of those we
no methodical data-coding and data-analysis techniques, the GM pro are studying in terms or concepts different from those our informants are
vides greater rigor, because it employs a more systematic research using, so we should be able to offer an alternative way of understanding
approach. This involves developing data analysis through three key their experience. Yet, our understanding should not be portrayed as
stages: a) the creation of analytic codes and categories, assembled into a somehow superseding the understanding of the people we are studying.
data structure containing 1st-order (informant centered) codes and 2nd- So, what to do? Whose interpretation should prevail?
order (theory centered) themes and aggregate dimensions; b) the The above portrayal suggests, rather, that both accounts should be
development of a grounded theoretical model, via constant comparison accommodated in representing the understanding of people at work.
of data over time and across informants and; c) the presentation of the And that is why proponents of the GM advocate using a systematically
study’s findings by means of a detailed, data-based narrative, usually derived data structure that accounts for both 1st-order [informant-based]
using the 2nd-order themes and aggregated dimensions, with frequent and 2nd-order [researcher-based] understandings. Developing this kind
reference to informants’ 1st-order quotations. of data structure enables researchers not only to report findings from
Overall, because of its disciplined approach to evidence gathering multiple perspectives, but also permits a way of showing evidence in
and data coding, the GM is compatible with the standards that apply to support of any conclusions which researchers might draw (and, there
quantitative research. More importantly, perhaps, the GM holds fore, convincingly shows data-to-theory connections). Using such an
knowledge-enriching potential because it uses an inferential process that approach serves to address accusations that (qualitative) research is too
involves both induction and abduction, thus better enabling novel “impressionistic.” It also helps to address the fundamental epistemo
theoretical insights. It thus allows the generation of “best explanations” logical question, “How do you know what you say you know?” And,
or “creative hypotheses” about the phenomenon of concern. given the scepticism of so many organizational researchers (the primary
Recently some scholars have criticized the GM as a kind of “tem audience for so much organizational research), the question is perhaps
plate” (Mees-Buss, Welch & Piekkari, 2022) that ostensibly replaces better phrased as, “How do I know that you know what you say you
reasoning with “proceduralism” (Harley & Cornelissen, 2022). Yet, the know?”.
GM should not be conceived as a “cookbook” of inflexible procedures to Lastly, the GM is predicated on the assumption that the purpose of
follow. Rather, it should be employed as a systematic approach to discovery-oriented research is to generate a plausible, defensible
trustworthy and rigorous qualitative data analysis that allows for crea (abductive) explanation of how and/or why an organizational phe
tive theoretical development and helps to communicate with reviewers nomenon occurs (see Gioia, et al., 2013). The guiding assumption is that
and editors (Gioia et al., 2022). Because of its systematic data analysis it is critical to be able to show the evidence that supports a conclusion
techniques, we think the IB and IE scholarly communities can take (hence, the now widespread concern with showing data-to-theory con
advantage of the opportunity to incorporate the GM methodology even nections). How, then, can such a goal be achieved?
more extensively.
The overall purpose of this paper is to introduce the application of 3. Summarizing a systematic methodological approach
the GM in IB/IE research. We first provide a section that illustrates the
key foundations of the GM, outlining the key assumptions behind it. We 3.1. Developing a data structure
then articulate GM’s methodological pillars providing examples of pa
pers that have applied the GM approach to IB/IE research questions. In On the basis of these assumptions, every analysis should begin with a
the last section, we consider the issue of transferability of GM studies’ depiction of the informants’ understandings of their work. Even if it
findings. (See the appendices and the online supplementary materials might not be possible to have a first-hand experiential understanding of
for a comprehensive summary of many of the papers that have used their work, we researchers nonetheless should try to capture the expe
variations of the Gioia Methodology in IB and IE research). rience of our informants by representing their understandings as they
see them. This implies that we should portray our informants’ experi
2. Philosophical underpinnings ence in their terms, not in the terms we researchers might want to use.
However, for our purposes, an informant-level view is not the only
One of the main things that makes the Gioia Methodology a “meth possible and workable view. So, it also helps if we also have a view more
odology” and not merely a “method” is that it is underpinned by several informed by theory. It also helps if the portrayal that results is “trans
major assumptions that are based in the philosophy-of-science. Among ferable” to other settings or contexts - which satisfies Lewin (1943)
these is that organizational phenomena are to a great extent socially criterion for generating theories that are useful for practice. Researchers
constructed (Berger & Luckmann, 1967) and that they are essentially therefore should emphasize key concepts and their interrelationships.
structurational in character (Giddens, 1984) – i.e. that organization Ultimately, we researchers need to present findings in ways that not only
members take actions that lead to the creation of structures, and that represent the informant experience, but also present evidence that can
those structures recursively enable and constrain further action. Human represent a more theoretical viewpoint.
agency begins the process, however, so agency has precedence. There That is precisely why a data structure is so very important, because,
after, people treat those structures they have created as if they were real properly done, a good data structure shows how the informant-based
and act in accordance with that construction of “reality.” (1st-order) codes relate to researcher-based (2nd-order) themes and
Another key assumption is that people at work are knowledgeable. dimensions (see Gioia, et al., 2013; Van Maanen, 1979). The GM is
They know what they are doing at work, how they are doing the work, predicated on the belief that unless researchers have a convincing data
and why they are doing it. Most importantly, people at work are capable structure, it is not possible to demonstrate to other interested readers
of explaining just what, how and why they are doing their work to us what a researcher thinks s/he/they knows. Researchers therefore must
2
G. Magnani and D. Gioia International Business Review 32 (2023) 102097
provide compelling evidence in support of any conclusions drawn. knowledge by expanding things we already know; and 3) hopefully, it
Taken together, this means that a 1st-order analysis should try to generates some new concepts or ways of understanding a phenomenon.
adhere faithfully to informant terms. At this point in the research pro Overall, then, the second step of the GM approach is the development
cess, the researcher should make little attempt to distil categories. The of a grounded theory model, which should show key relationships
number of categories can tend to explode (there could easily be 50–100 among the emergent concepts that explain the phenomena of interest:
first-order categories that might emerge from the first round of in “In boxes-and-arrows terms, the process of constructing the model
terviews – see Gioia et al., 2013), and the number of apparently key constitutes one of assembling the boxes with an emphasis on the arrows”
concepts might become overwhelming. To avoid “paralysis-by-analysis” (Gioia, 2021:24). In GM terms (Gioia et al., 2013: 24): “If the data
it is necessary for researchers to compare and contrast the various cat structure is the anatomy of the coming theory, then the grounded model
egories – using a method akin to Strauss & Corbin’s (1998) concept of is the physiology of that theory.” Links in the process model can also be
axial coding – to reduce the number of key categories (hopefully, to less expressed in propositional form, which can aid future research, in that
than 20). The most relevant categories can be given distinctive labels or the propositions can be converted to testable hypotheses.
descriptions. Yet, although labels might replicate the informants’ words, The overall GM analytical process develops through an inferential
there can be drawbacks to adhering closely to informant experiences, path that departs from an inductive-reasoning approach towards a more
running the danger of “going native”, i.e. getting too close to informant abductive one,1 developed by “systematically combining”2 the emerging
beliefs and inadvertently adopting solely the informant’s perspective, data from the field with existing theory. Peirce (1901: 900) stated that
which results in losing the higher-level perspective required for whenever we go beyond merely observing data and treat an observation
well-informed reasoning. To avoid this problem, one member of the as an instance of an abstract category, we are making an abduction:
research team can take an outsider perspective, and act as “devil’s “Neither deduction nor induction can ever add the smallest item to the
advocate.” Generating 2nd-order themes and aggregate dimensions in data of perception; [not] the smallest advance can be made in knowl
volves a process of sorting, reducing, and aggregating 1st-order codes edge beyond the stage of vacant staring without making an abduction at
using increasingly abstract categories and combining extant theory and every step”.
empirical evidence.
Interpretative awareness has been proposed by Sandberg (1997:
209) in the context of phenomenography “to acknowledge and explicitly 3.3. Presenting convincing findings
deal with our subjectivity throughout the research process instead of
overlooking it”. This means that, throughout the research process, a In the wake of generating the data structure and an associated
researcher must be aware of her or his interpretations and be able to grounded model, a researcher should have a story to tell (another way of
show how they have been examined and controlled. For example, when saying you have findings to report). If the researcher has done the
assigning labels to quotes, the researcher should ask her/him/their self research well, and is a little bit fortunate, s/he should be able to satisfy
(ves) how labels were developed using the data and how the empirical all three of the hallmarks of memorable research (i.e. affirmation,
evidence supports the concept(s) being developed. extension, generation). To drive the point home, in addition to the data
structure and grounded model, a researcher can coordinate these two
3.2. Developing an illustrative grounded model key features with ancillary tables, figures and appendices that demon
strate compelling evidence in support of the conclusions. The use of
In more recent research projects, Gioia and his colleagues have given tables is highly beneficial to qualitative research. As argued by Cloutier
special attention to the figure that depicts the emergent theory by and Ravasi (2021: 113): “tables can be used to ensure—and reassure
showing it early in the paper. Why? Because, although it might not be about—trustworthiness in qualitative research. […] tables help not only
entirely consistent with a pure interpretive approach, it is more increase transparency about data collection, analysis, and findings, but
consistent with the way that human understanding works. This more also—and no less importantly—organize and analyze data effectively”.
recent presentation style rests on what might be termed a “journalism” In the end, authors only get one chance to make a good first
model (sometimes summarized with an old American newspaper impression. Reporting findings in a compelling fashion is no mean feat.
dictum, “Tell ‘em what you’re gonna tell ‘em; then tell ‘em; then tell ‘em There are some tricks to the trade of reporting findings in an interesting
what you told ‘em”). People (even scholars) understand things better if way. So, within the context of using a journalists’ model to articulate the
they can use a framework into which they can assimilate data or infor findings, it is also possible to use a storytelling model to liven up the
mation. An important goal of research is to contribute to the reader’s narrative presentation of findings. That raises the question of whether to
understanding, so Gioia now tends to report the grounded model (in take advantage of primacy or recency effects. An answer – entirely
figure form) before reporting the findings. Therefore, if the goal is to consistent with the GM orientation toward whether to emphasize 1st- or
have readers remember the work (and it should be), then using a jour 2nd-order findings – is to do both. A researcher might consider discus
nalism model usually works better. (By the way, such advice tends to sing the most revelatory finding first, but save the second most revela
line up pretty well with our typical approach to writing anyway: 1) a tory finding for last.
theoretically-based introduction and review of literature, 2) a findings Overall, then, the GM research process can be viewed as transition
section, and 3) a discussion). ing from “inductive” to a form of “abductive” research. The steps
These days, one of Gioia’s main intents is to show how the data involving abduction constitute a creative process whereby the
structure (a rather static depiction) relates to the inductive model (a researcher makes inferences by combining theory and data in a way that
much more dynamic or “set-in-motion” depiction). To accomplish this is likely to produce novel theoretical insights. Not surprisingly,
goal, Gioia emphasizes relationships between the 1st- and 2nd-order
interpretations. The metaphorical stance is that if the data structure 1
represents something like a photo of the theory that has emerged, then Abduction is either about generating plausible (creative and selective) hy
potheses or inference to the “best explanation” (Magnani, 2001). Although
the grounded model figure represents a movie version of the theory (see
creative abduction refers to the development of new hypotheses, selective
Gioia, 2019). All these procedures are aimed at generating a grounded
abduction is active in diagnostic reasoning, where it is understood as an activity
process model that shows the most likely explanations of the phenomena of “selecting” from an “encyclopedia” of pre-stored ideas. ibid
of interest. The resulting model, properly constructed, tends to accom 2
Dubois & Gadde (2002: 555) illustrate systematic combining as the
plish several ends: 1) it affirms some existing concepts and in matching of, as well as the direction and redirection between, theory and the
terrelationships (one would question the research if the emergent model empirical world (the case). They stated that systematic combining has “the
did not affirm some of the things we already know); 2) it extends existing ultimate objective of matching theory and reality” (p. 556).”
3
G. Magnani and D. Gioia International Business Review 32 (2023) 102097
abductive reasoning is at the root of scientific creativity, as Peirce Further examples of data structures and coding procedures can be
himself argued a hundred years ago. Building on this, Gioia et al. (2013) found in Riviere, Suder & Bass (2018) and in Yu, Fletcher & Buck
argued that researchers need to consider data and existing theory in (2022). In the first paper, the authors sought to analyze how inter
tandem — as a combination of “knowing” and “not knowing”— and as a nationalized knowledge is advanced and improved across an MNE and
fine balancing act that allows for discovery without reinventing the how this knowledge contributes to the MNE’s strategic renewal. To
wheel (ibid, p. 21). The inferential process is thus more well-articulated answer their research questions, the authors developed a case study of
than what Mees-Buss et al. (2022: 43) regard as “nai¨ve induction.” First, the international division of Microsoft Corporation. They conducted 11
the GM approach is about taking a higher-level perspective to develop semi-structured interviews with open-ended questions, done over the
the 1st-order concepts by building on informants’ words. Second, the course of one year with knowledgeable informants about the topic, such
analytical process enabling the development of 2nd-order themes and as international division leaders from each of the five continents in
aggregate dimensions consists of interweaving induction and abduction, which the firm operates and the president of the international division.
the latter promoting the creative process of theoretical development They developed the coding process (see Box 1) in an iterative manner,
which ideally is “knowledge enriching” (Magnani, 2021). The general starting from a broad set of open (1st-order) codes to a narrower set of
process is depicted in Fig. 1. 2nd-order themes; then – via selective coding – to an even narrower set
of aggregate dimensions. Boxes 2,3, and 4 provide further examples of
4. Using the Gioia Methodology in IB and IE studies coding.
In the second paper (Yu et al., 2022) the authors applied the GM to
The core process through which a data structure is developed with a investigate how small and medium sized enterprises digitally transform
GM approach, is well described in Grøgaard, Colman & Stensaker during re-internationalization. They used 11 semi-structured interviews
(2022), a paper that analyzes how multinational enterprises (MNEs) of Chinese international SMEs, as well as archival materials about the
develop organizational flexibility to address multiple and shifting firms’ internationalization trajectories between 2001 and 2017 to gather
strategy pressures over time. These authors’ research adopts a proces data from the firms over the course of two years (2017–18). They per
sual approach, designing a qualitative, in-depth, longitudinal case study formed interviews with key informants involved in the
spanning 12 years of a Nordic multinational in the Telecom industry. re-internationalization processes of the enterprises (i. the CEOs, foun
The interviews, conducted with managers at headquarters and sub ders, senior managers, and external bank managers) who could reflect
sidiaries abroad, served as the primary data source. The authors did 14 on the ideas, actions, decisions, and conflicts or obstacles that the firms
interviews in the initial period (2003–2004) and additional 14 during encountered.3 To analyze the data, the authors complement a classic
the second phase (2012–2014). They then triangulated the data with multiple-case design with the systematic GM approach to data analysis.
archival firm-level data from company reports, presentations, and in First, they compiled each case’s re-internationalization history with
ternal documents, as well as observation (meetings at the MNE to vali critical events in their temporal sequences, then they compared the cases
date their interpretation of the data). They presented the data structure to identify distinct internationalization trajectories. Second, to analyze
following a precise coding protocol: digital transformation activities and patterns, they conducted a content
analysis for each case. At this stage, the authors identified 249 digital
(1) They used 1st-order analysis to identify the major themes in the transformation activities by inductively coding them into 1st-order
data and recurrent expressions that described the MNE’s strategic categories. Then they abstracted 2nd-order themes and aggregated di
choices, as well as how the firm recognized and dealt with various mensions “in iterative comparisons with the prior definitions and
pressures for global integration and/or local responsiveness. In meanings of operational and strategic digital transformation” (p. 8).
this initial stage of the data analysis, the authors adhered closely Munjal, Andersson, Pereira, and Budhwar (2021) report the inter
to their informants’ language. play of induction and abduction in their study about reverse knowledge
(2) Next, the authors developed 2nd-order themes with “constant transfer and asset augmentation strategy by a developed-country MNE.
comparison” techniques, ensuring that they used an abductive As the authors emphasize, the company undertook the latter strategy
approach: they compared the newly discovered data to previ through “[...] a continuous interplay of comprehensive literature review
ously published literature. Through repeated cycles, they arrived
at a final set of 2nd-order themes.
(3) Lastly, they combined theoretically informed, 2nd-order cate 3
The authors conducted retrospective interviews at the time of the firm’s
gories and data-driven 1st-order themes into overarching internationalization. Additionally, group interviews were held with several
concepts. informants from each incident. To better understand the connected processes of
how things evolved, they obtained information through retrospective recol
lections in addition to in-depth interviews.
4
G. Magnani and D. Gioia International Business Review 32 (2023) 102097
Box 1
Example of the process of coding: from 1st-order concepts to aggregate dimensions.
In Riviere, Sude & Bass (2018), initial codes were quite specific and frequently included in-vivo remarks from participants. This coding phase
consisted of manually coding transcripts. Using the interviewees’ statements, they developed 22 in vivo codes, which represented the
creation and incorporation of internationalization expertise in Microsoft. In a second stage, the authors imported this coding structure into
a qualitative data processing program (NVivo) to cluster the 1st-order categories into 2nd-order themes. The authors took into consideration
the shared understandings of informants when the latter raised the same concepts. For instance, most participants described municipal
government as both an opportunity and a crucial component of the market environment. These open codes were then compiled into a 2nd-
order, axial code that described the policies of the government of the host nation. This stage involved collapsing the open codes into axial
codes (2nd-order themes).In a third stage, the authors developed aggregate dimensions by collapsing the axial codes into more theoretically
abstract categories: “For example, one of the categories is localization knowledge, which is used to understand local market conditions.
Thus, the axial codes that described MSI’s ability to understand local market conditions were grouped together as advancing and improving
localization knowledge (selective code). This resulted in 6 aggregate themes that were consistent with the existing IK literature, but also
uncovered new understanding of IK and strategic renewal” (p. 70). Finally, as a result, the authors categorized the axial codes that reflected
MSI’s capacity to comprehend specific regional market circumstances as developing and enhancing localization expertise. Six overall
themes emerged as a result, which constituted novel insights into strategy renewal and were compatible with the body of previous research.
Box 2
Example of 1st-order concepts emerging through the coding process.
Tenzer, Pudelko & Zellmer-Bruhn (2021)’s online supplementary materials to their paper about the impact of language barriers on knowledge
processing in multinational teams provide useful examples of 1st-order concept codification. We show an excerpt from their table below.
Representative quotations from informants First-order concept
Through language, issues are softened, even though they are actually very, very German MNT members understand indirectly
directly and clearly addressed to someone in particular. If you don’t understand this worded orders as mere suggestions
– certainly 98% of people going to America don’t understand this – then it creates … I
don’t want to say a conflict, but a difference in task arrangements, in expectations.
This is really tricky. (drive 1-5, German)
This English politeness is fascinating. Sometimes I have the feeling ‘okay, what you just
said did not come across, because you formulated it way too politely and he does not
understand at all what you want from him’. (auto 4-1, Russian)
I would dissuade from using intonation too much, because this can have very different Subtext conveyed through intonation is difficult to
meanings. This is why I am always cautious. If someone raises his voices, this can be a decode
good sign in some countries and a bad sign in others. You just don’t know. If you
don’t know, you should keep things as simple as possible. (auto 1-2, German)
They have a different intonation in their language which we don’t understand and they
learn a different kind of English from the one we learn here. Maybe we use English
completely differently from the way they use it. That is very, very difficult. (drive 5-
1, German)
and conceptualization of the core concepts about the architecture of third. When they achieved an inter-rater agreement of 90.6%, this
knowledge transfer and the detailed empirical descriptions of emerging indicated strong consensus. If there was disagreement, the authors dis
themes and topics from their case study, where identification of the cussed the interpretations until agreement was reached.
codes followed a “careful reading and re-reading” of the transcripts.” We recommend using the most representative quotes from in
(ibid, p. 9). formants for each of the 2nd-order themes and aggregate dimensions.
According to Gioia, et al. (2013), when more than one researcher is For example, Grøgaard, Colman and Stensaker (2022) present their
involved in the study, the coding emerges as an iterative process of findings by zooming in on each of the 2nd-order themes about Telco’s
agreeing on codes and meaning. This technique is helpful to reduce the development of dynamic capabilities: i.e. i) push for global integration;
bias of a single researcher involved in the whole coding process. For ii) push for local responsiveness; iii) managerial capability deficiency;
example, Lacoste, Zidani and Cuevas (2022) mention that the authors vi) inertia of legacy; v) legitimizing need for recombination; vi)
worked on the coding of the data until they reached an agreement on its launching recombination initiatives; vii) leveraging current organiza
structure and meaning. Similarly, in Domurath, Coviello, Patzelt, and tional strengths. They explain these dimensions in a narrative, wherein
Ganal (2020) study of new-venture adaptation in international markets, the authors integrate quotes to ground and exemplify the key concepts.
the authors had to assess the degree of adaptation (low, high, medium) Each 2nd-order theme is supported by informants’ representative
of a set of actions in connection with the extent of change made to the quotes. For example, about “managerial capability deficiency”, the au
organization during internationalization. The assessment was per thors provide the following narrative.
formed by two of the authors simultaneously and then reviewed by the
5
G. Magnani and D. Gioia International Business Review 32 (2023) 102097
Box 3
Example of coding scheme.
Lacoste, Zidani & Cuevas (2022) in their paper about lateral collaboration and boundary-spanning in MNEs show examples of their coding
scheme for 2nd-order and 1st-order codes, by providing evidence of quotations from the informants’ transcripts.
2nd-order thematic analysis 1st-order thematic analysis Exemplary verbatim
GAM* leadership as a challenge of Issues related to GAM “The particularity of my position (…) is that I do not have a team at
matrix & virtual organization” leadership in a matrix home, I have no line management. I do not work alone but I work with
organization lams that are based in each country. Typically, on this account, we
work a lot with the Czech Republic, Romania, Russia, all of Asia with
sales teams based in Hong Kong, the United States, the middle east, the
Maghreb, Africa. My job is indeed to drive them in a matrix
organization and internationally.”
“it is very hard to manage teams that do not report to you directly. It is
like you are the team’s manager but on paper you are not. GAM is a
difficult role, and not having a structured management reporting
system makes it all the more difficult. You cannot influence the
promotion or the career of people and this puts GAM in a difficult
position because you are not able to control so much.
Dark side (GAM leadership in a “In the end, it is the employee (LAM**) who makes his choice and you
matrix organization) have an appearance of indirect management, but in fact, it is the
employee in question who says to you: sorry, I do not have the time;
sorry I do not have that to do. You find yourself helpless.”
Bright side (GAM leadership in “Finally, to get things from a person, it is not the hierarchy that
a matrix organization) actually plays, it is rather that everyone finds its benefit, we try to
“divert” to get the best people, we try to review our requirements, it
goes through other things in fact.”
“I give a lot of freedom when the goals are understood, committed and
defined. For example, on the holistic level, we all agree on the holistic
mission statement for the account: it contains what everybody has to
agree (i.e. That customer satisfaction is key). All those soft factors
that are incorporated in this mission statement, this makes us a great
team: we have 14 account managers on the account.”
* GAM is the acronym for “global account managers”
**LAM is the acronym for “local account managers”
“Our informants described how the MNE HQ management team was risk meet unique local needs”. This finding is supported by the in-text
averse about challenging strong local subsidiary managers to push the quotation:
integration efforts, and how capabilities to push the integration efforts
“Telco has chosen a different approach than (Competitor). For
through were lacking:
(Competitor), brand was key. Telco focuses on having Telco people in the
subsidiary management, such as the CEO, or on having control of
’[Management] is a little risk averse. So, working with governance models
ownership – over 51%. Then we can take out synergies through expertise
or trying to take some decision-making authority away from the local
and on some shared services and products. External – local people – can
CEOs… we are a little schizophrenic there.’ (HQ manager).
be recruited; however, they need to be trained as Telco employees.
’[The subsidiaries] need HQ management push and clarity. This also (Subsidiary manager)” (Grøgaard et al., 2022).
implies incentives and KPIs to measure their performance. If they are
In addition to the quotes presented in the text, supplementary ma
measured every three months on financial targets, it is difficult to make
terials (such as tables placed in the paper’s Appendix) can be used to
them do the investments in changes a year ahead. (…) this is all about
provide further evidence. For example, Niittymies (2020) provides
having managers that say ‘‘This is what we are doing,’’ and then make the
additional quotes that support each of the 2nd-order themes in the
organization act accordingly. From the top and all the way out.
Appendix.
(Manager)’.’’
A further example is that of Tenzer et al. (2021). In the online sup
plementary materials, the authors make available a table with further
In Grøgaard et al.’s (2022) paper about developing dynamic capa quotations supporting their propositions. For instance, in the case of
bilities in MNEs, the authors present the findings by analytically Proposition P7: “Divergent interpretations and agreement illusions impede
describing each of the 2nd-order themes that make up the aggregate the sophisticated knowledge processing activities of negotiating knowledge,
three key dimensions, integrating extensive quotes from Telco’s in integrating knowledge and acting on knowledge in MNTs,” the authors
formants. For example, for the 2nd-order dimension of “push for local provide the following supporting quote from their informant:
responsiveness”, the authors (Grøgaard et al., 2022: 646) found that:
“Besides the language, which we must really reduce to the simplest terms,
“Although these expatriate managers were given substantial autonomy
we have a cultural element, which slows us down in otherwise smooth
in the running of the foreign subsidiaries, they nevertheless lacked local
negotiations. From our Arabic counterparts, we may get the feedback:
market knowledge. This limited the expatriates’ ability to identify and
6
G. Magnani and D. Gioia International Business Review 32 (2023) 102097
Box 4
Example of representative quotes for 2nd-order concepts.
Niittymies (2020) in his paper on the influence of context-specific experience provides an Appendix containing additional representative quotes
of each of the 2nd-order themes. Below is an adapted excerpt from the paper’s Appendix.
Aggregate dimension: inability to harness the positive impact of heuristics
2nd-order theme: Lack of experience of 2nd-order theme: Inability to make sense of 2nd-order theme: Inability to plan a
the target environment the target markets strategy
Most representative quotes: Most representative quotes: Most representative quotes:
“CEO does not have international “We live here in such a small place, so we see “We have had a long consideration about
experience.” -Director GE these things from different perspectives, what will be our selection for international
whereas internationally it is a completely markets and the consideration has been
different perspective.”-Director GF around expertise, this personal training
coaching philosophy, materials, and from
those to the systems and sales processes and
so on…” – Director FB
“They [the founders] have acquired “We set out to international markets before we “This field is so new and it cannot be known
international experience by doing, but were ready. Our processes, support activity, where it is heading and what product will
it has come through trial and error.” - materials… they were not where they should work, so it has been very valuable information
Director GE have been. We did not even know exactly what we got from there and where are we
what we are.” - Director GA heading now.” – Director FA
“Not really strong international “at the beginning, we went, did, and watched “Strategy has been that there is no strategy.” –
background; my own international what the future holds since we really didn’t Director FC
background is mostly from this know what was outside of Finland.” – Director “There was not too much strategic planning,
project.”-Director FB FA but instead they just went [international]. It
would be nice to say that we did market
research and came to these solutions, but it
was not like that at least in our case.” -
Director GD
“Let’s think about the years 2012, 2013 and “We rather did so that we go and see what
compare it with the year 2016. We set out to happens. We go there, try it out, see what
internationalize personal- trainer knowhow happens and if it does not result in anything
but now we are selling the sales-marketing, we can stop.” - Director GB
digital learning environment, software that is
behind the personal trainer course.” – Director
FA
‘Yes, I understood. Okay, I’ll do it.’ But only when we get to the point organizational flexibility to meet multiple and shifting demands for
where we have to put into practice what we have negotiated do we see if global integration and local responsiveness. Their model specifies the
this was really okay or not. (AUTO 5–2, German)”. three dynamic capabilities that emerged from the data and the re
lationships among them. The authors stress that the model was devel
In the Gioia Methodology, the theorizing process starts early, taking
oped thanks to “an abductive process and illustrates the recombination
place together with the coding process. When the researcher develops
process in the MNE. These were the capability to legitimize changes, the
the codes, s/he/they already start considering interrelations among
capability to identify which existing FSAs [firm-specific advantages] to
concepts. A theoretical model is derived through systematic combining
continue to leverage and the capability to launch new FSAs” (p. 641).
of data and theory. This stage provides further opportunities for creative
Niittymies (2020) proposes a process model of heuristic
interpretation of the data and their relationships. It is a stage that con
decision-making in the process of firm internationalization. The model is
stitutes another abductive process, combining data and theory to
developed “turning the static themes into a theoretical model that il
develop explanations for the observed phenomenon. Gioia et al. (2013:
lustrates the process” (p. 4). It explains the four phases of heuristic
22) commented that moving from the aggregated dimensions to a
decision-making: (1) inability to harness the positive impact of heuris
grounded model might entail a “creative leap” or “Shazzam!” because of
tics; (2) systematic gathering of experience; (3) experience threshold;
“deep immersion” in the data. This is not a “naïve” aspect of the
and (4) heuristics-based strategy work. After having presented the
approach (Mees-Buss et al., 2022), but rather is the basis of creativity
model, Niittymies then “zooms in” on the phases and themes and ex
involved in the abductive process that combines data and extant theory
plains how each emerged in the analyzed case studies. Similarly, Stoian
and leads to explanations and hypotheses. As argued by Veen (2021:
et al.’s (2018) model explains how shared knowledge interpretation
1177), the creative leap consists in “arriving at hypotheses, combining
works across managers and advisers – enabling SMEs to engage in
effects with the imagination of possible explanations, and formulating
internationalization beyond merely exporting. Their model graphically
rules on the basis of observations”.
presents all knowledge types, both groups perceived as necessary for
Looking at several selected IB papers, Grøgaard et al. (2022)
internationalization beyond exporting to occur and highlights the three
formulated their process model of the development of dynamic capa
micromultinational-specific knowledge types; namely (a) in-depth
bilities in MNEs thanks to an abductive approach (i.e. iteratively
worldwide network knowledge, (b) hands-on foreign market knowl
comparing the data and the existing literature) to illustrate the re
edge, and (c) international set-up knowledge. Domurath et al. (2020)
lationships among the key concepts (i.e. comparing data with the
process model explains the international adaptation of new ventures
existing literature). They conceptualized how MNEs create the
7
G. Magnani and D. Gioia International Business Review 32 (2023) 102097
based on managerial goal orientations. In their model, there are two they can lay out how following cycle of grounded-theory building can
distinct managerial goal-orientation profiles that are ultimately linked build upon the current one, which can complete the concept formation
to the firm’s international adaptation behavior. The set of firms, led by process. For broader audiences, propositions—whether formal or
managers with a “Prove plus Mastery” profile, actively decided to informal—help to highlight the contributions of the study. Finally, using
engage in numerous activities to promote learning and improve ability, propositions can help close the frequently large gap between qualitative
thus leading to frequent adaptation and earlier and broader and quantitative researchers, as they can be tested on more compre
internationalization. hensive samples by employing a quantitative research design (Gioia,
Nag & Corley 2012).
5. The issue of transferability
6. Conclusion
IB and IE reviewers sometimes argue that the findings of a particular
study cannot be generalized. Although the latter is a relevant issue in Qualitative research is often generative research. It tries to represent
quantitative research and survey-based designs, the grounded theory the VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous) worlds that
approach – and therefore that of the Gioia Methodology – rests on practicing managers inhabit. It does so by simplifying the complex, by a
different assumptions. The aim is to develop substantive theory: a theory process we might term as “simplexity” (although we use the term in a
that explains, at a broad conceptual level, a process, an action, or fashion different than used by Colville, Brown & Pye, 2012). The Gioia
interaction about a substantive topic. According to Glaser and Strauss Methodology focuses on generating simplified theoretical models con
(1967: 79), “substantive theory is a strategic link in the formulation and cerning complex organizational phenomena (which is a characteristic of
generation of grounded formal theory. […] Although formal theory can all theoretical models). In the end, we believe our main goals as re
be generated directly from data, it is more desirable, and usually searchers should be to: 1) use assumptions that recognize that much of
necessary, to start a formal theory from a substantive one. Substantive organizational reality is socially constructed and structurational in na
theory not only provides a stimulus to a ’good idea,’ but it also gives an ture; 2) treat organization members as knowledgeable and, therefore
initial direction in developing relevant categories and properties and in that we should appropriately represent their lived experience while also
choosing possible modes of integration. Indeed it is difficult to find a depicting theory-based understanding; 3) show the data-to-theory evi
grounded formal theory that was not in some way stimulated by sub dence that supports assertions about what we think we know, and 4)
stantive theory”. present plausible, defensible explanations for the experience of organi
The output of a study using the GM approach is a “working theory” zations and their members. These four desires are difficult to do in
that is context-specific, but nonetheless is transferable to other compa accomplishing our research but, if we do so, we can make a difference
rable contexts, rather than being “statistically generalizable.” This with our international and entrepreneurial research.
means that grounded theories using the GM approach aim for “analytical Consequently, we have articulated the philosophy-of-social-science
generalization”, not “statistical generalization,”4 leading to the trans underpinnings of the Gioia Methodology and its associated methodo
ferability (Lincoln & Guba, 1985) of results based on a theoretical ex logical pillars. We have also considered some selected IB/IE papers that
amination of the variables influencing outcomes and the impact of have applied the GM by: a) developing a data structure, b) developing a
context. Transferability implies that even a single observation might grounded model, and c) presenting findings in a convincing fashion. We
indicate a concept that applies to other contexts, whereas statistical have highlighted the inferential path of data analysis typical of GM – i.e.
generalizability denotes that a researcher has accumulated broad from inductive (the development of 1st-order concepts), to more
enough evidence for an observed phenomenon to be applied widely abductive (development of 2nd-order themes, aggregate dimensions,
(Gioia, 2021). Transferability is, in other words, an issue of “portable and the grounded theory model). The IB/IE studies cited in this paper all
principles,” wherein a particular instance can exhibit a principle that aimed to answer important “how” and “why” questions and the
might be applied (i.e. be portable) to a wider variety of circumstances. reviewed papers show that the GM can be applied in a rigorous way by
In the end, the aim of discovery-oriented research is to look for a following its assumptions and procedures. Future IB and IE research can
thoughtful explanation, a grounded theory with a wider range of take the opportunity to develop theory by exploring and exploiting the
applicability to other domains. So, using a GM approach refutes the potentialities provided. In this fashion, there is a good possibility for
conventional wisdom which argues it is impossible to draw general advancing the field by producing more meaningful research.
conclusions from small samples, especially samples of one (as most case What follows are two extensive appendices that draw upon a number
studies are). Transferability can be made from a case study if a given of IB and IE studies that have either used the assumptions underlying the
instance yields concepts, ideas or rules that are applicable to other do Gioia Methodology and/or variations of the techniques used in its
mains. Propositions can help other researchers understand and benefit application. In the first, Appendix A (papers we have cited in the text),
from a given study and offer a direction for future research. For example, we have identified the study, the main research question, examples of
the 1st-order codes, the 2nd-order themes and aggregate dimensions, as
well as offering some brief commentary about the study. In the second,
4
In contrast to statistical generalization, analytical generalization does not Appendix B, we have identified only the authors and included the title
infer information about a population from the data. Analytic generalization, on and the main focus of each paper. In the supplementary online materials
the other hand, compares the results of a case study to a previously developed we also provide the abstracts of these papers.
theory. As made clear by Yin (2009: 15), “[⦓] case studies, like experiments, are
generalizable to theoretical propositions and not to populations or universes. In Data Availability
this sense, the case study, like the experiment, does not represent a "sample,"
and in doing a case study, the goal of the research will be to expand and Data will be made available on request.
generalize theories (analytic generalization) and not to enumerate frequencies
(statistical generalization)”.
4
In contrast to statistical generalization, analytical generalization does not infer information about a population from the data. Analytic generalization, on the
other hand, compares the results of a case study to a previously developed theory. As made clear by Yin (2009: 15), “[⦓] case studies, like experiments, are
generalizable to theoretical propositions and not to populations or universes. In this sense, the case study, like the experiment, does not represent a "sample," and in
doing a case study, the goal of the research will be to expand and generalize theories (analytic generalization) and not to enumerate frequencies (statistical
generalization)”.
8
G. Magnani and D. Gioia International Business Review 32 (2023) 102097
Appendix A. Selective Summary of IB/IE papers applying the Gioia Methodology (papers cited in the text)
Data structure
Paper Research question (s)/ First order concepts Second order themes Aggregate Comments
Issue dimensions
Riviere, Suder (1) How “Each country can have a little bit of a Advancing and Improving Reading the local Instrumental in-depth single case study
& Bass internationalization difference, and then we try to have a localization knowledge of the market’s
(2018) knowledge (IK)0 is conversation with the government.” host country government’s potential (sensing)
advanced and improved agenda
through “I’m thinking obviously at Brazil as one of Advancing and Improving
internationalization those, Russia, I don’t know very well but I localization knowledge of the
efforts? (2) How new know there are a lot of opportunities over availability and potential of
knowledge is captured and there, and in some cases it may also be the local youth
integrated into the existing youth available too, right, the economical
IK resource base; (3) What expansion is also a question of intention
is the role of IK in fostering of youth to create their own jobs, to create
strategic renewal in an their company and so on, and that’s also
MNE? an important element for us.”
“We are closely monitoring all new Advancing and Improving
development. And if we see localization knowledge of the
some fantastic new opportunities, potential capabilities of local
capability, idea, team that can be firms
acquired and integrated to Microsoft, we
use this opportunity.”
“Therefore it is key for the strategy of the Advancing and Improving
company to think of localization knowledge of local
not only how to cover the main cities of innovation systems and
the country but also how to engage with potential (knowledge
other locations within a country and reservoirs)
make ties with the local universities. So
we also get exposed to local talents. So I
would say that is the core of our
investment strategy.”
“Across all of those we invested in core Advancing and Improving
engineering talent that localization knowledge of the
also had entrepreneurial skills. And the local entrepreneurial
way that they developed those environment
entrepreneurial skills came out of the
experience they had in [those countries]
and also out of the experiences that they
had not just a as a child playing game on
the phone, but also out of the experiences
they lived in a connected environment;
and that they had a venture capital
community that was able to support them
to develop the entrepreneurial spirit, to
try things, invest in things, and do new
innovative products.”
“And when I talk about local presence I Advancing and Improving Building and
am not talking about market entry knowledge broadening
deploying American or Redmond through a global talent relationships in the
resources in this part of the management program local market
world. I am talking about hiring, (seizing)
retaining and developing.”
“We do need to be effective in aligning to Advancing and Improving
the Government. That would be the top market entry knowledge
three: attracting the best talents locally, through a co-development
aligning to local requirements and agenda with the local
working hand-in-hand with government
local Governments.”
“Core R & D will continue to be in just few Advancing and Improving
places, but it does market entry knowledge
not mean that we don’t take on through a local research
opportunities to do indigenous network
innovation; we do it through these
Microsoft innovation
centers.”
“That’s how we try investing all of our Advancing and Improving
time. Many of these market entry knowledge
companies grow to be good partners of
(continued on next page)
9
G. Magnani and D. Gioia International Business Review 32 (2023) 102097
(continued )
Data structure
Paper Research question (s)/ First order concepts Second order themes Aggregate Comments
Issue dimensions
10
G. Magnani and D. Gioia International Business Review 32 (2023) 102097
(continued )
Data structure
Paper Research question (s)/ First order concepts Second order themes Aggregate Comments
Issue dimensions
11
G. Magnani and D. Gioia International Business Review 32 (2023) 102097
(continued )
Data structure
Paper Research question (s)/ First order concepts Second order themes Aggregate Comments
Issue dimensions
12
G. Magnani and D. Gioia International Business Review 32 (2023) 102097
(continued )
Data structure
Paper Research question (s)/ First order concepts Second order themes Aggregate Comments
Issue dimensions
13
G. Magnani and D. Gioia International Business Review 32 (2023) 102097
(continued )
Data structure
Paper Research question (s)/ First order concepts Second order themes Aggregate Comments
Issue dimensions
14
G. Magnani and D. Gioia International Business Review 32 (2023) 102097
(continued )
Data structure
Paper Research question (s)/ First order concepts Second order themes Aggregate Comments
Issue dimensions
15
G. Magnani and D. Gioia International Business Review 32 (2023) 102097
(continued )
Data structure
Paper Research question (s)/ First order concepts Second order themes Aggregate Comments
Issue dimensions
16
G. Magnani and D. Gioia International Business Review 32 (2023) 102097
(continued )
Data structure
Paper Research question (s)/ First order concepts Second order themes Aggregate Comments
Issue dimensions
17
G. Magnani and D. Gioia International Business Review 32 (2023) 102097
Appendix B. Selective Summary of IB/IE papers employing the Gioia Methodology and/or its Assumptions (2014 – 2022)
Cerdin, Diné & Brewster (2014) Qualified immigrants’ success: exploring the motivation to migrate Explore the role of high-quality employees with international
and to integrate experience in internationally operating organizations.
Liu, Adair & Bello (2015) Fit, misfit, and beyond fit: relational metaphors and semantic fit in How international joint ventures ’partners’ use relational metaphors
international joint ventures and semantic fit to communicate.
Maitland & Sammartino (2015) Managerial cognition and internationalization How senior decision-makers within a multinational enterprise think
through and determine an internationalization decision.
Liu, Gao, Lu, & Wei (2015) The role of highly skilled migrants in the process of inter-firm Examine the role of individuals with a bilingual-bicultural background
knowledge transfer across borders in the process of inter-firm international knowledge transfer.
Cuervo-Cazurra, Andersson, From the Editors: Can I trust your findings? Ruling out alternative Provide guidance to help international business scholars to ensure that
Brannen, Nielsen & Reuber explanations in international business research readers can trust their findings.
(2016)
Li, Easterby-Smith, Lyles, & Clark Tapping the power of local knowledge: a local-global interactive Investigate the micro-processes of how they generated value from their
(2016) perspective dispersed sources of local knowledge in China.
Conroy & Collings (2016) The legitimacy of subsidiary issue selling: balancing positive & How subsidiaries draw on different forms of legitimacy to attract
negative attention from corporate headquarters corporate headquarters’ (CHQ) positive attention and minimise
negative CHQ attention in issue selling.
Liu & Almor (2016) How culture influences the way entrepreneurs deal with uncertainty Analyze the concept of uncertainty stemming from inter-organizational
in inter-organizational relationships: the case of returnee versus relationships in the entrepreneurial context as a multivariate concept,
local entrepreneurs in China utilizing Milliken’s framework.
Durand (2016) Employing critical incident technique as one way to display the Explore perceptions of job changes and cross-cultural interactions in a
hidden aspects of post-merger integration multicultural team resulting from a cross-border merger and acquisition.
Mattarelli, Tagliaventi, Carli, & The role of brokers and social identities in the development of How global virtual teams adapt routines and build capabilities, and the
Gupta (2017) capabilities in global virtual teams role played by brokers and social identities in this process.
Pant & Ramachandran (2017) Navigating identity duality in multinational subsidiaries: a paradox Investigate the subsidiary’s identity duality and conceptualize it as a
lens on identity claims at Hindustan Unilever 1959–2015 paradox.
Chandra (2017) A time-based process model of international entrepreneurial Examine how founders of early-internationalizing firms evaluate
opportunity evaluation international entrepreneurial opportunities in the early- and late-stage
of internationalization.
Tenzer & Pudelko (2017) The influence of language differences on power dynamics in Explore the influence of language differences on power dynamics in
multinational teams multinational teams.
Stoian, Dimitratos & SME internationalization beyond exporting: a knowledge-based Unveil the knowledge types required by micromultinationals.
Plakoyiannaki (2018) perspective across managers and advisers
Friel & de Villechenon (2018) Adapting a lean production program to national institutions in Latin Analyse how national institutions identified in the varieties of capitalism
America: Danone in Argentina and Brazil approach have a significant impact on the degree of fidelity and
extensiveness of best practices adapted by geocentric multinational
corporations in host countries in emerging markets.
Newenham-Kahindi & Stevens An institutional logics approach to liability of foreignness: the case Address the issue of firms’ liability of foreignness under conditions of
(2018) of mining MNEs in Sub-Saharan Africa institutional complexity.
Hassett, Reynolds & Sandberg The emotions of top managers and key persons in cross-border Analyze the post-M&A emotions of top managers and key persons from
(2018) M&As: evidence from a longitudinal case study the acquired company and what the consequences of those emotions are.
He, Khan & Shenkar (2018) Subsidiary capability upgrading under emerging market acquirers Explore the upgrading of capabilities in the subsidiaries in developed
countries acquired by emerging market multinational enterprises.
Gorgijevski, Lind & Lagerström Does proactivity matter? The importance of initiative selling tactics Examine how the use of a set of initiative selling tactics influences the
(2019) for headquarters acceptance of subsidiary initiatives acceptance of subsidiary initiatives by MNC headquarters.
Lunnan & McGaughey (2019) Orchestrating international production networks when formal Investigate how a brand-owning MNE can coordinate and safeguard
authority shifts exchanges in its international production network following a decline in
formal authority and a shift in ‘hub firm’ status to another member of
the network.
Urzelai & Puig (2019) Developing international social capital: the role of communities of Explore the alternative ways to create and make use of that international
practice and clustering social capital by FDI firms.
Balogun, Fahy & Vaara (2019) The interplay between HQ legitimation and subsidiary legitimacy Study how MNEs build internal legitimacy for controversial decisions
judgments in HQ relocation: a social psychological approach with their subsidiaries.
Magnani & Zucchella (2019) Coping with uncertainty in the internationalisation strategy: an Explore uncertainty-coping strategic actions in the internationalisation
exploratory study on entrepreneurial firms strategy of entrepreneurial ventures.
Vigneau (2020) A micro-level perspective on the implementation of corporate social Examine the implementation of corporate social responsibility practices
responsibility practices in multinational corporations across subsidiaries within a multinational corporation.
Galkina & Yang (2020) Bringing Nordic slush to Asia: entrepreneurial internationalization Explore special mechanisms of NGOs’ internationalization.
of an NGO as a social movement
Wang, Clegg, Gajewska-De The role of emotions in intercultural business communication: Examine language standardization in a multinational enterprise in the
Mattos, & Buckley (2020) language standardization in the context of international knowledge context of international knowledge transfer treated as an act of
transfer communication.
Jamali, Jain, Samara, & Zoghbi How institutions affect CSR practices in the Middle East and North Unpack how institutional heterogeneity in the Middle East and North
(2020) Africa: a critical review Africa impacts the practice of Corporate Social Responsibility.
Ambos, Fuchs & Zimmermann Managing interrelated tensions in headquarters–subsidiary Explore the challenge of managing tensions between local integration
(2020) relationships: the case of a multinational hybrid organization and global responsiveness in MNEs strategy.
Fernando & Patriotta (2020) “Us versus them”: sensemaking and identity processes in skilled How sensemaking links identity to migrants’ occupational experiences
migrants’ experiences of occupational downgrading in new organisational contexts.
Nurmi & Koroma (2020) The emotional benefits and performance costs of building a How employees cope with the requirement to work in a foreign
psychologically safe language climate in MNCs language has received little scholarly attention.
Uner, Cetin & Cavusgil (2020) On the internationalization of Turkish hospital chains: a dynamic How do professional service firms build the capabilities required for
capabilities perspective effective international operations.
Villo, Halme & Ritvala (2020) Theorizing MNE-NGO conflicts in state-capitalist contexts: insights Theory development of MNE-NGO-state conflicts in state-capitalist
from the Greenpeace, Gazprom and the Russian state dispute in the contexts.
Arctic
(continued on next page)
18
G. Magnani and D. Gioia International Business Review 32 (2023) 102097
(continued )
Authors Title Main focus
Ai & Tan (2020) Uncovering neglected success factors in post-acquisition reverse Examines key success factors in post-acquisition reverse capability
capability transfer: evidence from Chinese multinational transfer.
corporations in Europe
Gutierrez-Huerter, Moon, Gold, & Micro-processes of translation in the transfer of practices from MNE Examine the translation of corporate social responsibility reporting in
Chapple (2020) headquarters to foreign subsidiaries: the role of subsidiary MNEs.
translators
Liu & Meyer (2020) Boundary spanners, HRM practices, and reverse knowledge transfer: Investigate the role of boundary spanners in reverse knowledge transfer
the case of Chinese cross-border acquisitions in emerging market multinational enterprises’ cross-border acquisitions.
Degbey & Pelto (2021) Customer knowledge sharing in cross-border mergers and How mergers and acquisitions offer a valuable inter-organizational
acquisitions: the role of customer motivation and promise context through which to understand the attainment of customer
management knowledge sharing.
Malik et al. (2021) Elevating talents’ experience through innovative artificial How a large MNE shared knowledge through artificial intelligence
intelligence-mediated knowledge sharing: evidence from an IT- mediated social exchange using effective global talent management
multinational enterprise strategies.
Michalski & Śliwa (2021) ‘If you use the right Arabic…’: responses to special language Discuss journalists’ responses to corporate language standardization
standardization within the BBC Arabic Service’s linguascape within the linguascape of the BBC Arabic Service.
Fortwengel (2021) The formation of an MNE identity over the course of How exactly a MNE form an identity across several countries.
internationalization
Mazé & Chailan (2021) A South-South perspective on emerging economy companies and How international tenders act as defining moments in building
institutional coevolution: an empirical study of Chinese asymmetric coevolution-based mechanisms between Chinese
multinationals in Africa multinational enterprises and local institutions in developing African
countries.
Bohnsack, Ciulli & Kolk (2021) The role of business models in firm internationalization: an Explore the relevance of business models in firm internationalization.
exploration of European electricity firms in the context of the energy
transition
Mreji & Barnard (2021) The micro-foundations of the returnee liability: the interpersonal Theorize the micro-foundations of the returnee liability: mismatched
challenges of returnee entrepreneurs in Kenya expectations, cultural tension and mutual suspicion. Returnees who sent
remittances while abroad expect locals to support their return and
Earl & Michailova (2021) Home governments and MNEs in Russia: relationships and MNE Examine the complex relationships between the government and MNEs
external legitimacy in Russia.
Boojihawon, Richeri, Liu, & Agile route-to-market distribution strategies in emerging markets: Understand the factors underpinning route-to-market agile capabilities,
Chicksand (2021) the case of Paraguay and how they influence the development of the agile distribution
strategies of MNEs.
Munjal et al. (2021) Exploring reverse knowledge transfer and asset augmentation Examine strategic asset and knowledge augmentation strategies of an
strategy by developed country MNEs: Case study evidence from the advanced economy MNE.
Indian pharmaceutical industry
Pereira, Patnaik, Temouri, Tarba, A longitudinal micro-foundational investigation into ambidextrous Explore the development of an ambidextrous context in a rapidly
Malik, & Bustinza (2021) practices in an international alliance context: a case of a biopharma growing emerging market multinational unbundling cultural and
EMNE structural complexities.
Ren, Fan, Huang, & Li (2021) The micro-foundation of ambidextrous opportunity identification in How, and under what conditions, MNEs identify various international
international expansion opportunities.
Vukicevic, Fallon & Ott (2021) A theoretical and empirical investigation into investment activities Examine the determinants of direct investment in the UK by technology-
of technologically intensive Chinese state-owned enterprises in the intensive Chinese state-owned enterprises.
UK
Andrews, Nimanandh, Htun, & MNC response to superstitious practice in Myanmar IJVs: How Western MEs affect – and are affected by – the use of superstition
Santidhirakul (2022) understanding contested legitimacy, formal–informal legitimacy among local subsidiary managers in an emerging Asian economy.
thresholds, and institutional disguise
Peltokorpi (2022) Headhunter-assisted recruiting practices in foreign subsidiaries and Elucidate how and why dysfunctional effects are reproduced by human
their (dys)functional effects: an institutional work perspective resource management practices.
Tran & Truong (2022) Knowledge recontextualization by returnee entrepreneurs: the Explore how returnee entrepreneurs in Vietnam learn to recontextualize
dynamic learning perspective their overseas knowledge while establishing new ventures back in their
home country.
Nguyen & Tull (2022) Context and contextualization: the extended case method in Advance the extended case method, a powerful context sensitive case-
qualitative international business research based research strategy that is underutilized in international business
Röell, Osabutey, Rodgers, Arndt, Managing socio-political risk at the subnational level: lessons from How MNEs ensure their success by maintaining active relationships with
Khan, & Tarba (2022) MNE subsidiaries in Indonesia a variety of non-market actors.
Zheng, Noorderhaven & Du Making the unlikely marriage work: the integration process of Develop a model to understand post-acquisition integration processes.
(2022) Chinese strategic asset-seeking acquisitions
Santistevan (2022) Boundary-spanning coordination: insights into lateral collaboration How actors coordinate laterally between multiple nodes and across
and lateral alignment in multinational enterprises multiple boundaries for interorganizational boundary spanning.
Stendahl, Tippmann & Yakhlef Practice creation in multinational corporations: improvisation and How can MNEs elicit lateral collaboration during practice creation in a
(2022) the emergence of lateral knowledge less space-time sensitive way.
Mbalyohere & Lawton (2022) Engaging informal institutions through corporate political activity: Examine how MNEs organize internally to enhance subnational
capabilities for subnational embeddedness in emerging economies institutional fit in new frontier developing economies.
Iwashita (2022) Language and identity in the shadow: a multi-case study of a How different organizational identities can be constructed by the use of
Japanese multinational corporation multiple languages within a multinational corporation’s subsidiaries.
Altintas, Ambrosini & Gudergan MNE dynamic capabilities in (un)related diversification How MNEs configure multiple dynamic capabilities to support their
(2022) diversification activities
Welch et al. (2022) Reconciling theory and context: how the case study can set a new Further develop the argument that context is essential, and not a
agenda for international business research hindrance, to theorizing.
Amankwah-Amoah, Boso & Institutionalization of protection for intangible assets: insights from How multiple political networking capabilities are developed and
Kutsoati (2022) the counterfeit and pirated goods trade in sub-Saharan Africa leveraged to institutionalize protection for strategic internationally
transferrable intangible assets in weak institutional environments.
Reuber & Fischer (2022) Putting qualitative international business research in context(s) Build on Welch et al. (J Int Bus Stud 42(5):740–762, 2011) JIBS Decade
Award-winning article and develop further the role of contextualization
in IB.
(continued on next page)
19
G. Magnani and D. Gioia International Business Review 32 (2023) 102097
(continued )
Authors Title Main focus
Brannen (2022) From a distance to up close and contextual: moving beyond the Provide the backstory to the the 2021 Decade Award and discuss how
inductive/deductive binary there has never been a better time for the power of richness from
qualitative research in IB.
Mukhtar, Zhu, Lee, Bambacas, & Challenges confronting the ‘One Belt One Road’ initiative: social Investigate the challenges confronting cross-cultural adjustment among
Cavusgil (2022) networks and cross-cultural adjustment in CPEC projects the Chinese and Pakistani employees participating in the CPEC projects.
Hong & Minbaeva (2022) Multiculturals as strategic human capital resources in multinational Investigate individuals with notable cultural knowledge, skills, abilities,
enterprises and other characteristics in MNEs performance leading and competitive
advantages.
Goxe, Mayrhofer & Kuivalainen Argonauts and icaruses: social networks and dynamics of nascent How social networks can be hostile to nascent international
(2022) international entrepreneurs entrepreneurs.
Wu, Liu, Jasimuddin, & Zhang Rethinking cross-border mobile payment ecosystems: a process Investigate how and why the Cross-Border Mobile Payment (CBMP)
(2022) study of mobile payment platform complementors, network effect platform complementor develops complementary ecosystems.
holes and ecosystem modules
Younis, Dimitratos & Elbanna International entrepreneurial SMEs in the muslim world: the role of Examine how does religion affect SMEs’ internationalisation.
(2022) religion in the GCC countries
Preuss, Vazquez-Brust, When social movements close institutional voids: triggers, Conceptualize the triggers, processes and consequences of informal
Yakovleva, Foroughi, & Mutti processes, and consequences for multinational enterprises institution-building by a social movement.
(2022)
Barnard & Mamabolo (2022) On religion as an institution in international business: executives’ Understand how managers in different types of firms make sense of the
lived experience in four African countries dysfunction of institutionally weak environments.
Supplementary data associated with this article can be found in the online version at doi:10.1016/j.ibusrev.2022.102097.
References Conroy, K. M., & Collings, D. G. (2016). The legitimacy of subsidiary issue selling:
Balancing positive & negative attention from corporate headquarters. Journal of
World Business, 51(4), 612–627.
Ai, Q., & Tan, H. (2020). Uncovering neglected success factors in post-acquisition reverse
Corley, K. G., & Gioia, D. A. (2011). Building theory about theory building: What
capability transfer: Evidence from Chinese multinational corporations in Europe.
constitutes a theoretical contribution? Academy of Management Review, 36(1), 12–32.
Journal of World Business, 55(3), Article 101053.
Degbey, W. Y., & Pelto, E. (2021). Customer knowledge sharing in cross-border mergers
Altintas, G., Ambrosini, V., & Gudergan, S. (2022). MNE dynamic capabilities in (un)
and acquisitions: The role of customer motivation and promise management. Journal
related diversification. Journal of International Management, 28(1), Article 100889.
of International Management, 27(4), Article 100858.
Alvesson, M., Gabriel, Y., & Paulsen, R. (2017). Return to meaning: A social science with
Domurath, A., Coviello, N., Patzelt, H., & Ganal, B. (2020). New venture adaptation in
something to say. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
international markets: A goal orientation theory perspective. Journal of World
Amankwah-Amoah, J., Boso, N., & Kutsoati, J. K. (2022). Institutionalization of
Business, 55(1), Article 101019.
protection for intangible assets: insights from the counterfeit and pirated goods trade
Dubois, A., & Gadde, L. E. (2002). The construction industry as a loosely coupled system:
in sub-Saharan Africa. Journal of World Business, 57(2), Article 101307.
Implications for productivity and innovation. Construction Management & Economics,
Ambos, T. C., Fuchs, S. H., & Zimmermann, A. (2020). Managing interrelated tensions in
20(7), 621–631.
headquarters–subsidiary relationships: The case of a multinational hybrid
Durand, M. (2016). Employing critical incident technique as one way to display the
organization. Journal of International Business Studies, 51(6), 906–932.
hidden aspects of post-merger integration. International Business Review, 25(1),
Andrews, T. G., Nimanandh, K., Htun, K. T., & Santidhirakul, O. (2022). MNC response to
87–102.
superstitious practice in Myanmar IJVs: understanding contested legitimacy,
Earl, A., & Michailova, S. (2021). Home governments and MNEs in Russia: Relationships
formal–informal legitimacy thresholds, and institutional disguise. Journal of
and MNE external legitimacy. Journal of International Management, 27(2), Article
International Business Studies, 53, 1178–1201.
100847.
Balogun, J., Fahy, K., & Vaara, E. (2019). The interplay between HQ legitimation and
Eisenhardt, K. M. (2020). Theorizing from cases: A commentary. In Research methods in
subsidiary legitimacy judgments in HQ relocation: A social psychological approach.
international business (pp. 221–227). Palgrave Macmillan,.
Journal of International Business Studies, 50(2), 223–249.
Fayerweather, J. (1969). International business management. The International Executive,
Barnard, H., & Mamabolo, A. (2022). On religion as an institution in international
11(1), 10–11.
business: executives’ lived experience in four African countries.’. Journal of World
Fernando, D., & Patriotta, G. (2020). Us versus them: sensemaking and identity processes
Business, 57(1), Article 101262.
in skilled migrants’ experiences of occupational downgrading. Journal of World
Bartlett, C. A. (1979). Multinational structural evolution: the changing decision
Business, 55(4), Article 101109.
environment in international divisions. Cambridge MA. Harvard University Press,.
Fortwengel, J. (2021). The formation of an MNE identity over the course of
Berger, P. L., & Luckmann, T. (1967). Aspects sociologiques du pluralisme. Archives
internationalization. Journal of International Business Studies, 52(6), 1069–1095.
Délelő tt Sociologie des Religions, 23, 117–127.
Friel, D., & de Villechenon, F. P. (2018). Adapting a lean production program to national
Birkinshaw, J., Brannen, M. Y., & Tung, R. L. (2011). From a distance and generalizable
institutions in Latin America: Danone in Argentina and Brazil. Journal of International
to up close and grounded: reclaiming a place for qualitative methods in international
Management, 24(3), 284–299.
business research. Journal of International Business Studies, 42(5), 573–581.
Galkina, T., & Yang, M. (2020). ‘Bringing Nordic slush to Asia: Entrepreneurial
Bohnsack, R., Ciulli, F., & Kolk, A. (2021). The role of business models in firm
internationalization of an NGO as a social movement. International Business Review,
internationalization: an exploration of European electricity firms in the context of
29(6), Article 101749.
the energy transition. Journal of International Business Studies, 52(5), 824–852.
Giddens, A. (1984). The constitution of society: Outline of the theory of structuration.
Boojihawon, D. K., Richeri, A., Liu, Y., & Chicksand, D. (2021). Agile route-to-market
Berkeley and Los Angeles. University of California Press.
distribution strategies in emerging markets: The case of Paraguay. Journal of
Gioia, D. (2021). A systematic methodology for doing qualitative research. The Journal of
International Management, 27(1), Article 100740.
Applied Behavioral Science, 57(1), 20–29.
Brannen, M. Y. (2022). From a distance to up close and contextual: Moving beyond the
Gioia, D., Corley, K., Eisenhardt, K., Feldman, M., Langley, A., Lê, J., Golden-Biddle, K.,
inductive/deductive binary. Journal of International Business Studies, 53(1), 64–71.
Locke, K., Mees-Buss, J., Piekkari, R., Ravasi, D., Rerup, C., Schmid, T.,
Cerdin, J. L., Diné, M. A., & Brewster, C. (2014). Qualified immigrants’ success:
Silverman, D., & Welch, C. (2022). A curated debate: on using “templates” in
Exploring the motivation to migrate and to integrate. Journal of International Business
qualitative research. Journal of Management Inquiry, 31(3), 231–252.
Studies, 45(2), 151–168.
Gioia, D. A. (2019). If I had a magic wand: Reflections on developing a systematic
Chandra, Y. (2017). A time-based process model of international entrepreneurial
approach to qualitative research. In Standing on the shoulders of giants (Volume 11,
opportunity evaluation. Journal of International Business Studies, 48(4), 423–451.
pp. 27–37). Bingley, Emerald Publishing Limited: Research Methodology in Strategy
Cloutier, C., & Ravasi, D. (2021). Using tables to enhance trustworthiness in qualitative
and Management.
research. Strategic Organization, 19(1), 113–133.
Gioia, D. A., & Chittipeddi, K. (1991). Sensemaking and sensegiving in strategic change
Cohen, L., Manion, L., & Morrison, K. (2011). Research methods in education (seventh ed.).
initiation. Strategic Management Journal, 12(6), 433–448.
New York: Routledge.
Colville, I., Brown, A. D., & Pye, A. (2012). Simplexity: sensemaking, organizing and
storytelling for our time. Human Relations, 65(1), 5–15.
20
G. Magnani and D. Gioia International Business Review 32 (2023) 102097
Gioia, D. A., Corley, K. G., & Hamilton, A. L. (2013). Seeking qualitative rigor in Mbalyohere, C., & Lawton, T. C. (2022). Engaging informal institutions through
inductive research: Notes on the Gioia methodology. Organizational Research corporate political activity: Capabilities for subnational embeddedness in emerging
Methods, 16(1), 15–31. economies. International Business Review, 31(2), Article 101927.
Gioia, D. A., Nag, R., & Corley, K. G. (2012). Visionary ambiguity and strategic change: McDougall, P. P., Shane, S., & Oviatt, B. M. (1994). Explaining the formation of
The virtue of vagueness in launching major organizational change. Journal of international new ventures: The limits of theories from international business
Management Inquiry, 21(4), 364–375. research. Journal of Business Venturing, 9(6), 469–487.
Gligor, D. M., Esmark, C. L., & Gölgeci, I. (2016). Building international business theory: Mees-Buss, J., Welch, C., & Piekkari, R. (2022). From templates to heuristics: how and
A grounded theory approach. Journal of International Business Studies, 47(1), 93–111. why to move beyond the Gioia methodology. Organizational Research Methods, 25(2),
Gorgijevski, A., Lind, C. H., & Lagerström, K. (2019). Does proactivity matter? the 405–429.
importance of initiative selling tactics for headquarters acceptance of subsidiary Michalski, M. P., & Śliwa, M. (2021). If you use the right Arabic…’: Responses to special
initiatives.’. Journal of International Management, 25(4), Article 100673. language standardization within the BBC Arabic Service’s linguascape. Journal of
Goxe, F., Mayrhofer, U., & Kuivalainen, O. (2022). Argonauts and Icaruses: social World Business, 56(5), Article 101198.
networks and dynamics of nascent international entrepreneurs. International Business Mreji, P., & Barnard, H. (2021). The micro-foundations of the returnee liability: the
Review, 31(1), Article 101892. interpersonal challenges of returnee entrepreneurs in Kenya. Journal of International
Grøgaard, B., Colman, H. L., & Stensaker, I. G. (2022). ‘Legitimizing, leveraging, and Management, 27(2), Article 100846.
launching: Developing dynamic capabilities in the MNE. Journal of International Mukhtar, A., Zhu, Y., Lee, Y. I., Bambacas, M., & Cavusgil, S. T. (2022). Challenges
Business Studies, 53(4), 636–656. confronting the ‘One Belt One Road’ initiative: social networks and cross-cultural
Gutierrez-Huerter, O. G., Moon, J., Gold, S., & Chapple, W. (2020). Micro-processes of adjustment in CPEC projects. International Business Review, 31(1), Article 101902.
translation in the transfer of practices from MNE headquarters to foreign Munjal, S., Andersson, U., Pereira, V., & Budhwar, P. (2021). Exploring reverse
subsidiaries: the role of subsidiary translators. Journal of International Business knowledge transfer and asset augmentation strategy by developed country MNEs:
Studies, 51(3), 389–413. Case study evidence from the Indian pharmaceutical industry. International Business
Harley, B., & Cornelissen, J. (2022). Rigor with or without templates? The pursuit of Review, 30(6), Article 101882.
methodological rigor in qualitative research. Organizational Research Methods, 25(2), Newenham-Kahindi, A., & Stevens, C. E. (2018). An institutional logics approach to
239–261. liability of foreignness: The case of mining MNEs in Sub-Saharan Africa. Journal of
Hassett, M. E., Reynolds, N. S., & Sandberg, B. (2018). The emotions of top managers and International Business Studies, 49(7), 881–901.
key persons in cross-border M&As: Evidence from a longitudinal case study. Nguyen, D. C., & Tull, J. (2022). Context and contextualization: The extended case
International Business Review, 27(4), 737–754. method in qualitative international business research. Journal of World Business, 57
He, S., Khan, Z., & Shenkar, O. (2018). Subsidiary capability upgrading under emerging (5), Article 101348.
market acquirers. Journal of World Business, 53(2), 248–262. Niittymies, A. (2020). Heuristic decision-making in firm internationalization: the
Hong, H. J., & Minbaeva, D. (2022). Multiculturals as strategic human capital resources influence of context-specific experience. International Business Review, 29(6), Article
in multinational enterprises. Journal of International Business Studies, 53(1), 95–125. 101752.
Iwashita, H. (2022). Language and identity in the shadow: A multi-case study of a Nurmi, N., & Koroma, J. (2020). The emotional benefits and performance costs of
Japanese multinational corporation. International Business Review, 31(2), Article building a psychologically safe language climate in MNCs. Journal of World Business,
101913. 55(4), Article 101093.
Jamali, D., Jain, T., Samara, G., & Zoghbi, E. (2020). How institutions affect CSR Pant, A., & Ramachandran, J. (2017). Navigating identity duality in multinational
practices in the Middle East and North Africa: A critical review. Journal of World subsidiaries: A paradox lens on identity claims at Hindustan Unilever 1959–2015.
Business, 55(5), Article 101127. Journal of International Business Studies, 48(6), 664–692.
Johanson, J., & Vahlne, J.-E. (1977). The internationalization process of the firm: A Peirce, C. S. (1901). The proper treatment of hypotheses: a preliminary chapter, toward
model of knowledge development and foreign market commitment. Journal of an examination of Hume’s argument against miracles, in its logic and in its history.
International Business Studies, 8(1), 23–32. MS 692; LOS, 890–904.
Lacoste, S., Zidani, K., & Cuevas, J. M. (2022). Lateral collaboration and boundary- Peltokorpi, V. (2022). Headhunter-assisted recruiting practices in foreign subsidiaries
spanning from a global leadership perspective: The case of global account managers. and their (dys)functional effects: an institutional work perspective. Journal of World
Journal of World Business, 57(3), Article 101288. Business, 57(6), Article 101366.
Lewin, K. (1943). Defining the field at a given time. Psychological Review, 50(3), Pereira, V., Patnaik, S., Temouri, Y., Tarba, S., Malik, A., & Bustinza, O. (2021).
292–310. A longitudinal micro-foundational investigation into ambidextrous practices in an
Li, S., Easterby-Smith, M., Lyles, M. A., & Clark, T. (2016). Tapping the power of local international alliance context: A case of a biopharma EMNE. International Business
knowledge: A local-global interactive perspective. Journal of World Business, 51(4), Review, 30(1), Article 101770.
641–653. Prahalad, C. K. (1975). The strategic process in a multinational corporation. Cambridge
Lincoln, Y. S., & Guba, E. G. (1985). Naturalistic inquiry. Beverly Hills, CA: Sage MA. Harvard University.
Publications. Preuss, L., Vazquez-Brust, D., Yakovleva, N., Foroughi, H., & Mutti, D. (2022). When
Liu, L. A., Adair, W. L., & Bello, D. C. (2015). Fit, misfit, and beyond fit: Relational social movements close institutional voids: Triggers, processes, and consequences for
metaphors and semantic fit in international joint ventures. Journal of International multinational enterprises. Journal of World Business, 57(1), Article 101283.
Business Studies, 46(7), 830–849. Reay, T., Zafar, A., Monteiro, P., & Glaser, V. (2019). Presenting findings from qualitative
Liu, X., Gao, L., Lu, J., & Wei, Y. (2015). The role of highly skilled migrants in the process research: One size does not fit all! In T. B. Zilber, J. M. Amis, & J. Mair (Eds.), The
of inter-firm knowledge transfer across borders. Journal of World Business, 50(1), production of managerial knowledge and organizational theory: new approaches to
56–68. writing, producing and consuming theory (pp. 201–216). Bingley: Emerald Publishing
Liu, Y., & Almor, T. (2016). How culture influences the way entrepreneurs deal with Limited.
uncertainty in inter-organizational relationships: The case of returnee versus local Ren, S., Fan, D., Huang, X., & Li, Z. (2021). The micro-foundation of ambidextrous
entrepreneurs in China. International Business Review, 25(1), 4–14. opportunity identification in international expansion. International Business Review,
Liu, Y., & Meyer, K. E. (2020). Boundary spanners, HRM practices, and reverse 30(1), Article 101764.
knowledge transfer: The case of Chinese cross-border acquisitions. Journal of World Reuber, A. R., & Fischer, E. (2022). Putting qualitative international business research in
Business, 55(2), Article 100958. context(s). Journal of International Business Studies, 53(1), 27–38.
Lunnan, R., & McGaughey, S. L. (2019). Orchestrating international production networks Riviere, M., Suder, G., & Bass, A. E. (2018). Exploring the role of internationalization
when formal authority shifts. Journal of World Business, 54(5), Article 101000. knowledge in fostering strategic renewal: A dynamic capabilities perspective.
Magnani, G., & Zucchella, A. (2019). Coping with uncertainty in the internationalisation International Business Review, 27(1), 66–77.
strategy: An exploratory study on entrepreneurial firms. International Marketing Röell, C., Osabutey, E., Rodgers, P., Arndt, F., Khan, Z., & Tarba, S. (2022). Managing
Review, 36(1), 131–163. socio-political risk at the subnational level: Lessons from MNE subsidiaries in
Magnani, L. (2001). Abduction. reason, and science: Processes of discovery and explanation. Indonesia. Journal of World Business, 57(3), Article 101312.
New York: Kluwer Academic/Plenum Publishers,. Sandberg, J. (1997). Are phenomenographic results reliable? Higher Education Research
Magnani, L. (2021). Abduction as “leading away”. In J. R. Shook, & S. Paavola (Eds.), and Development, 16(2), 203–212.
Abduction in cognition and action: Logical reasoning, scientific inquiry, and social practice Santistevan, D. (2022). Boundary-spanning coordination: Insights into lateral
(pp. 77–105). Springer. collaboration and lateral alignment in multinational enterprises. Journal of World
Maitland, E., & Sammartino, A. (2015). Managerial cognition and internationalization. Business, 57(3), Article 101291.
Journal of International Business Studies, 46(7), 733–760. Stendahl, E., Tippmann, E., & Yakhlef, A. (2022). Practice creation in multinational
Malik, A., De Silva, M. T., Budhwar, P., & Srikanth, N. R. (2021). Elevating talents’ corporations: Improvisation and the emergence of lateral knowledge. Journal of
experience through innovative artificial intelligence-mediated knowledge sharing: World Business, 57(3), Article 101287.
Evidence from an IT-multinational enterprise. Journal of International Management, Stoian, M. C., Dimitratos, P., & Plakoyiannaki, E. (2018). SME internationalization
27(4), Article 100871. beyond exporting: A knowledge-based perspective across managers and advisers.
Mattarelli, E., Tagliaventi, M. R., Carli, G., & Gupta, A. (2017). The role of brokers and Journal of World Business, 53(5), 768–779.
social identities in the development of capabilities in global virtual teams. Journal of Strauss, A. L., & Corbin, J. (1998). Grounded theory methodology: An overview. In
International Management, 23(4), 382–398. N. K. Denzin, & Y. S. Lincoln (Eds.), Strategies of Qualitative Inquiry (pp. 158–183).
Mazé, D., & Chailan, C. (2021). A South-South perspective on emerging economy Thousand Oaks CA: Sage.
companies and institutional coevolution: An empirical study of Chinese Tenzer, H., Pudelko, M., & Zellmer-Bruhn, M. (2021). The impact of language barriers on
multinationals in Africa. International Business Review, 30(4), Article 101704. knowledge processing in multinational teams. Journal of World Business, 56(2),
Article 101184.
21
G. Magnani and D. Gioia International Business Review 32 (2023) 102097
Tran, Y., & Truong, A. T. T. (2022). Knowledge recontextualization by returnee Welch, C., Paavilainen-Mäntymäki, E., Piekkari, R., & Plakoyiannaki, E. (2022).
entrepreneurs: The dynamic learning perspective. Journal of International Reconciling theory and context: How the case study can set a new agenda for
Management, 28(3), Article 100922. international business research. Journal of International Business Studies, 53(1), 4–26.
Uner, M. M., Cetin, B., & Cavusgil, S. T. (2020). On the internationalization of Turkish Welch, C., & Piekkari, R. (2017). How should we (not) judge the ‘quality’ of qualitative
hospital chains: A dynamic capabilities perspective. International Business Review, 29 research? A re-assessment of current evaluative criteria in international business.
(3), Article 101693. Journal of World Business, 52(5), 714–725.
Urzelai, B., & Puig, F. (2019). Developing international social capital: The role of Wilkins, M. (1970). The emergence of multinational enterprise: American business abroad
communities of practice and clustering. International Business Review, 28(2), from the colonial era to 1914. Cambridge MA: Harvard University Press.
209–221. Wu, M., Liu, Y. D., Jasimuddin, S. M., & Zhang, Z. J. (2022). Rethinking cross-border
Van Maanen, J. (1979). The fact of fiction in organizational ethnography. Administrative mobile payment ecosystems: A process study of mobile payment platform
Science Quarterly, 24(4), 539–550. complementors, network effect holes and ecosystem modules. International Business
Veen, M. (2021). Creative leaps in theory: the might of abduction. Advances in Health Review, Article 102026.
Sciences Education, 26(3), 1173–1183. Yin, R. K. (2009). Case Study Research: Design and Methods (fourth ed.). Thousand Oaks
Vigneau, L. (2020). A micro-level perspective on the implementation of corporate social CA: Sage.
responsibility practices in multinational corporations. Journal of International Younis, H., Dimitratos, P., & Elbanna, S. (2022). International entrepreneurial SMEs in
Management, 26(4), Article 100804. the muslim world: The role of religion in the GCC countries. International Business
Villo, S., Halme, M., & Ritvala, T. (2020). Theorizing MNE-NGO conflicts in state- Review, Article 102023.
capitalist contexts: insights from the Greenpeace, Gazprom and the Russian state Yu, H., Fletcher, M., & Buck, T. (2022). Managing digital transformation during re-
dispute in the Arctic. Journal of World Business, 55(3), Article 101068. internationalization: Trajectories and implications for performance. Journal of
Vukicevic, J., Fallon, G., & Ott, U. F. (2021). A theoretical and empirical investigation International Management, 28(4), Article 100947.
into investment activities of technologically-intensive Chinese state-owned Zheng, Q., Noorderhaven, N., & Du, J. (2022). Making the unlikely marriage work: The
enterprises in the UK. International Business Review, 30(1), Article 101763. integration process of Chinese strategic asset-seeking acquisitions. Journal of World
Wang, Q., Clegg, J., Gajewska-De Mattos, H., & Buckley, P. (2020). The role of emotions Business, 57(3), Article 101305.
in intercultural business communication: Language standardization in the context of
international knowledge transfer. Journal of World Business, 55(6), Article 100973.
22