Business growth models: review of past 60 years

Abstract

This study reviews growth configurations research published over the past 60 years. Numerous configuration models seek to clarify the management priorities in the early growth of companies. However, an extensive review is missing from the literature and the variability of attributes among the models leads to confusion. The study identifies 90 configuration studies, describes the common patterns and trends, and identifies well-covered areas and promising research challenges. This meta-analysis reveals increasing consensus on growth indicators, sharpening focus, increasing context and process specificity, and diversification. Future approaches are encouraged to provide context-specific empirical studies, and to open new viewpoints.