Flexible Footprints: Reconfiguring MNCs for New Value Opportunities

What is it about?

Managing a portfolio of international operations is challenging. We offer a framework for conceptualising, assessing and managing such a portfolio which captures use-, firm-, and location-flexibility. By using the decision tool set out in this article, MNC executives can map their worldwide footprint of strategic roadblocks and opportunities to expand into new markets, divest redundant businesses, and build flexibility to adapt to future challenges.

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Photo by Felipe Correia on Unsplash

Photo by Felipe Correia on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Our paper extends an existing strategic management framework explicitly into the international business domain. It gives multinationals (and prospective multinationals) a more systematic way to think about their footprint. It also grants researchers greater scope to investigate why footprints might (and might not) change. Furthermore, policy-makers can use this framework to better understand the motivations and limitations of multinationals investing in their economies.