Redefining concepts: a theoretical paper about key concepts of internationalization theories

Abstract

Theories may be considered to be mechanisms that simplify reality. During this simplification, key concepts remain and are highlighted while others are ignored. In order to broaden the applicability of internationalization theories to developing countries this theoretical paper identified the main concepts of the Life Cycle, Nordic School of Uppsala, Eclectic Paradigm, Adaptive Choice, Resource Based View and Diamond Model theories. The concepts of location, tangible and intangible resources, environment, management choices, learning and influence of external agents were explored. It was suggested that the internationalization process be assessed from a longitudinal perspective to identify the importance of each key concept during the process. The objective was to construct new and more dynamic theories that better reflect the true situation of developing countries. The conclusion was that no model can, by itself, explain the process.