Abstract
Drawing on network learning theory, it investigates the effect of small and medium-sized enterprises' (SMEs) experience of using foreign and domestic social network services (SNS) and foreign and domestic platforms (such as B2B digital platforms) on their international orientation. We further examine the moderating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the relationship between digital experience and international orientation. Empirical results from a sample of 373 observations from 250 Chinese SMEs show that their use of foreign SNS and B2B digital platforms has a stronger positive impact on their international orientation than their use of domestic SNS and B2B digital platforms. Even with the COVID-19 pandemic, SMEs' use of foreign SNS still has a stronger positive impact on their international orientation than their use of domestic SNS. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic mitigates the positive impact of their use of both foreign and domestic platforms on their international orientation. This study presents some interesting theoretical and practical implications for SMEs' digitalization and internationalization.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 100950 |
Journal | Journal of International Management |
Volume | 28 |
Issue number | 4 |
Early online date | 24 Mar 2022 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Dec 2022 |
Bibliographical note
Funding Information:This work is supported by Hankuk University of Foreign Studies Research Fund.
Publisher Copyright:
© 2022 Elsevier Inc.
Keywords
- COVID-19 pandemic
- Digital platforms
- International orientation
- Network learning theory
- Small and medium-sized enterprises
- Social network services
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Business and International Management
- Finance
- Strategy and Management