Differences in environment, KSFs, CEO roles, and the external linkage among Korean ventures at different growth stages

우리나라 벤처기업의 성장단계에 대한 실증분석 연구

This study examines the differences in the various characteristics of the firms along their growth stage based on the survey data of 2,515 Korean ventures. Venture characteristics include KSFs(Key Success Factors), environment attributes of their product markets, CEO roles, the use of OPR(Other Peoples Resource). Growth stage of the ventures are classified by their dominant management problems: foundation, the market launch of the first proprietary product or service, The Outset of second generation product or service, and the Initial Public Offering (IPO) and stabilization. The results of this study show substantial differences in many aspects among firms at different growth stages. Although common KSFs exist, KSFs are changing as the venture evolves. Differences in KSFs and environmental attributes along growth stage require CEO to do different role in business process. Different kinds and amounts of external resources are needed according to their growth stage. However, almost all of external resources are offered to ventures in later stage. Entrepreneurs need to change their role, as their firms grow, from visioning and strategic role to marketing and production emphasized role. Based on the results, this study suggests a number of new government policies and future research ideas. Other implications and limitations of this study are also noted.