Components of a best-practices model for university-industry linkages include sustained university commitment, standardized policy instruments, an entrepreneurial approach, and effective stakeholder network. Strategic issues for implementing the model are as follows: making industry aware of services, making contact, providing flexible delivery,…

A British study of 29 providers of competency-based management training to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and a survey of 591 SMEs revealed that the value of National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) was unclear to both groups. Providers felt NVQs lacked relevance to SMEs and were time consuming. Some SMEs participated only because…

Two surveys of new micro-businesses in Devon and Cornwall (n=361) and interviews with owners and trainers showed that support at and after start-up was not adequate. A potential cause is that the Business Link network, intended to help small growing companies, is not sufficiently flexible or pragmatic to meet their needs. (SK)

A study of British business owners and employees who were trained in business applications of the Internet found it raised awareness of information/communication technologies. Connecting the training to National Vocational Qualifications proved unpopular. The need for business centers offering the training was clear and ways to improve the program…

Investigates the feasibility of using LISREL (LInear Structural RELations), a computer program that analyzes covariance structures and describes the relationships among all the variables by a group of linear equations, to determine the impact of information, relative to other factors, on development of the small manufacturing business sector in…

Action research in small companies attempting change used concepts of paradox and metaphor to examine change processes. Findings include the need to (1) discover change in mini-worlds (parts of organizations), (2) appreciate first-order learning, and (3) stabilize change and handle the forces trying to change stability. (Contains 46 references.)…

Two projects attempted to assess and meet small and medium-sized enterprises' training needs. Britain's Learning support for Small Businesses delivery methods included paper, CD-ROM, and the Internet. The University of Limerick, Ireland, offered face-to-face learning for microenterprises. (SK)

Presents several aspects of the development of actionable competitive intelligence into SMEs (small and medium enterprises). Describes types of information used in SMEs, economic intelligence in France, suggestions for information management, and various works undertaken through the European Community. (Contains 11 references.) (Author/LRW)

Presents a conceptual model for governments in creating a climate that facilitates the national adoption of e-business. Focuses on the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises, suggests measures to assess how a country is performing in providing a positive e-business climate, and provides examples from Canada, The Netherlands, Norway, and…

A survey of 128 small businesses in England found that 84% of owners did not feel lifelong learning was right for their organization; 80% felt it was valid for their own development; and they did not recognize the value of nonwork-related learning. Key staff, however, saw learning as a continuous and vital process for their future development.…

A study of 168 small British manufacturing firms showed that, as they moved from single- to double-loop learning, they adopt more formalized organizational learning methods, such as systems for the management and dissemination of knowledge across the work force. (SK)

University business incubators give businesses access to labs and equipment, scientific-technical knowledge, networks, and reputation. A study of incubators in Italy shows they do not resolve inadequate funding or lack of management and financial skills. However, the networking capacity can offset these problems. (Contains 25 notes/references.)…

Discusses technology diffusion through formal and informal networks. Develops a model that includes channels and mechanisms involved in transferring technology into innovative small businesses. The model depicts influences that increase or slow the rate of diffusion. (SK)

A survey of 54 Canadian travel agencies identified various factors determining the assimilation of electronic commerce by small enterprises in the form of informational, transactional, and strategic implementation of a Web site. Results indicate informational implementation and transactional implementation are determined by the environmental…

In the context of the UK government's target of 50% participation by young people in higher education, issues relating to the use of graduates in firms assume renewed significance. Increasing attention is paid to the potential for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to absorb a larger number of new graduates. With reference to the…