Identification of interfunctional coordination items important for business performance of SMEs

Abstract

This paper provides a deeper analysis of the relationships between interfunctional coordination (IFC) and business performance (BP). IFC is studied in many fields such as marketing, management, logistics, informatics or human resources. The novelty lies in offering an original perspective on IFC and its impact on individual items of BP. The statistical analysis of the relationship between IFC and BP is based on a survey of small and medium-sized manufacturers. Sufficient models were identified by a stepwise backward procedure based on Akaike information criterion (AIC). The results show that it is possible to find a sufficient model for each item of BP. Sets of IFC items with exclusively positive or negative influence on at least two BP items were identified. These items of IFC are aimed on cooperative arrangement, expertise, leadership style, coordination activities and control. This research brings theoretical contributions and can be useful for managers.