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The promise of granularity theory in simplifying challenges of entrepreneurial internationalization

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Abstract

This article proposes the use of the theory of granularity as an overall theme for this issue, in order to relate various issues discussed by the articles, and also to bridge across differences within and across articles in this issue.

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Notes

  1. Two aspects of transformation for shifting the perspective in the Granularity Theory are briefly and simply highlighted. Simply stated, transitive (see definition below) properties of relations are used, in part or in whole, to simplify the extent of complexity in the theory. While preserving their underlying relations, the nontransitive relations were re-characterized (or re-formulated) in terms of tractable local axioms and local partial theories, in order to make the shift in analytical perspective possible allowing for more tangible (simpler alternative but true) understanding of the concepts involved. Logically, axiomatic relations of all local theories had to remain compliant (preserved) after the shift in perspective.

  2. The average cost of the discovery and regulatory approval of a new drug in the USA is about $500 Million and takes about 10 years; which leaves a short span of time to recover costs before the drug is replaced by a more advanced or effective one.

  3. The above two articles share other common features, including the complexity of functional fragmentation, information asymmetry, hard markets boundaries, and diverse regulatory and institutional requirements, among others, some of which are already discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. McGill University, Montreal, Canada

    Hamid Etemad

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  1. Hamid Etemad
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Correspondence to Hamid Etemad.

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Etemad, H. The promise of granularity theory in simplifying challenges of entrepreneurial internationalization. J Int Entrep 14, 473–482 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10843-016-0198-4

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