Determinant Factors in the Internationalization of Knowledge-Intensive Services in a Peripheral Area

Abstract

The objective of this study is to learn some of the determinant factors in the internationalization of knowledge-intensive services in a peripheral zone in accordance with the Eclectic Paradigm [1] [2]. The study will focus on Andalusia in Southern Spain. In the Andalusian region, there are no official data on internationalized companies. We have therefore conducted a survey of 256 service internationalized companies within the region. The results show that the ownership or specific advantages considered by the businesses themselves is the quality of service, training of employees, leadership and management ability, innovation, technology and the image that customers have of the company. Regarding the advantages of locating abroad that are believed to be the most important, those companies that engage in foreign investment highlight customer’ follow-up and look for new customers. As well, they greatly value those factors related to the destination market: size, growth and access to the market as well as other markets.