| This thesis reviews and organizes the literature associated with small business, entrepreneurial and micro-firm growth mechanisms with a view toward identifying a strategy execution framework. It is proposed that this framework may assist owners and stakeholders increase the probability of growth and profitability. Conventional management approaches are deeply engrained in the operating cultures of small businesses and teams. Traditional approaches are valid and useful to maintain current operations or "business as usual"; however, they fall short when it comes to achieving consistent, predictable, and systematic growth. Small businesses can out execute competitors and sustain constant growth if they focus intensely on strategic priorities, commit to performance measures, and nourish peer-to-peer accountability among employees. The goal of this paper is to expand the understanding of how small firms can simply and affordably execute strategy. Understanding how small businesses, entrepreneurs, and micro-firms achieve success has significant implications for state, local, and national economies. |
