Internationalization learning theory
The business learning theory of internationalization or the level theory of internationalization by Jan Johanson and Jan-Erik Vahlne (University of Uppsala) is one of the most cited theoretical approaches to explain the operation of companies in foreign markets. Johanson / Vahlne attribute the internationalization of companies not primarily to economic factors, but to behavioral factors such as knowledge, learning and experience.
The model describes the entry of companies into a foreign sales market as a process that takes place in four stages.
- Ad hoc export activities to geographically close markets,
- regular export to distant markets,
- Sales branch abroad,
- Establishment of production facilities abroad.
The aim of this step-by-step approach is on the one hand to reduce the risks that internationalization brings with it. On the other hand, by completing a level you have gained valuable experience, which can be advantageous or even necessary for a further step.
literature
- Johanson, J./Vahlne, J.-E. (1977): The Internationalization Process of the Firm. A Model of Knowledge Development and Increasing Foreign Market Commitments. In: Journal of International Business Studies. Vol. 8, No. 1, pp. 23-32.
- Dirk Holtbrügge: The learning theory of internationalization by Johanson / Vahlne: basics, empirical relevance and criticism (PDF; 373 kB). University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Working Papers, No. 3/2005
supporting documents
- ↑ Holtbrügge, p. 2
- ↑ Observation Network of European SMEs: Internationalization of SMEs ( Memento of the original of July 18, 2007 in the Internet Archive ) Info: The archive link has been inserted automatically and has not yet been checked. Please check the original and archive link according to the instructions and then remove this notice.
