The Entrepreneurial Failure: Exploring Links between the Main Causes of Failure and the Company life Cycle
Qualitative analysis using NVivo 7software
Amel Dakoumi Hamrouni, Imen Akkari
Abstract
Purpose – This paper aims to explore links between entrepreneurial failure and factors that underlie the case of companies of different ages by taking into account the company life cycle Design/methodology/approach – The research has used a qualitative interview methodology based on the life stories of four entrepreneurs who have experienced entrepreneurial failure. The data have been analysed using NVivo 7 software. Findings – The findings indicate that among the main causes of failure of start-ups we find lack of experience and management skills as well as a shortage of financial resources, while the failure of older firms is mainly due to financial mismanagement. Research limitations/implications – This study is based on qualitative interpretation.The limitations of this study are due to the small number of informants and also to the lack of generalization of results. In further studies, larger samples should be used. Originality/value – Little previous work has been undertaken to analyze entrepreneurial failure using both the main causes of failure and the company life cycle.
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