CRIEFF Discussion Paper Number 0402
A Coevolutionary Analysis of Organisational
Systems and Processes: Quantitative applications to information system dynamics
for small entrepreneurial firms in Scotland
Gavin
C. Reid and Julia A. Smith
Abstract
We present a quantitative, dynamic analysis of coevolution in the new firm. Organisation
is treated as a process, rather than a state, involving the simultaneous
evolution of interacting systems within, and between, small firms and their
environment. Our quantitative analysis uses primary-source, timeelapsed
data, obtained by face-to-face interviews with entrepreneurs. We found a link
between performance and micro-evolutionary experience. High performers were
more innovative, more radical ‘change makers’, more willing to ‘wait and see’,
and more willing to use ‘soft’ technologies than low performers.
JEL Classifications: D21, D8, D92, M21, M41, O33
Keywords:
Coevolution, accounting information system (AIS),
small firms, performance, organisational form,
innovation, ‘soft’ technology
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