How does thinking approach help companies to overcome barriers in the internationalization process?

  • Laura Sousa Carnall (Student)

Student thesis: Master's Thesis

Abstract

The goal/purpose of this dissertation is to fill the gap in the literature regarding the application of “design thinking” (a human-centered, problem-solving methodology) as a facilitator in internationalization processes, more specifically how can help firms to surpass encountered barriers during its internationalization to foreign markets. To answer this question a qualitative study was conducted, using the case-study method. Interviews were the key technique to collect primary data, and internal and external documentation provided secondary data. The findings show that the impact of the design thinking approach is positive in overcoming internal (marketing – product) and external barriers (sociocultural) when internationalizing to foreign markets. The methodology is composed of five stages: i) empathize, ii) define, iii) ideate, iv) prototype and v) test. The first three stages have a greater impact in benefiting firms to overcome external obstacles.
Date of Award19 Jul 2016
Original languageEnglish
Awarding Institution
  • Universidade Católica Portuguesa
SupervisorLaure Leglise (Supervisor)

Keywords

  • Design thinking
  • Barriers
  • Internationalization

Designation

  • Mestrado em Gestão: Programa Internacional

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