Interdisciplinary measuring the life cycle phases of ICT firms

Abstract

Purpose – This study aims to check whether the conclusions of measuring the firm life cycle by a model related to economics and finance (Dickinson model) are consistent with the model related to management (Greiner model). Design/methodology/approach – We applied the technique of individual in-depth interviews to verify firm development stages in the case of the Greiner model (nonfinancial aspect). We implemented cash flow statements prepared by using the indirect method to identify stages of a company’s life cycle in the Dickinson model. Findings – Dickinson’s model (2011) unanimously indicates a specific development stage for the companies studied. In contrast, it was impossible to assign companies to a strictly defined development stage using Greiner’s model (1972). However, the analysis of the results obtained with this model made it possible to distinguish development stages for different management areas in companies. These stages differ from each other. Originality/value – The results of this research bring new knowledge to the analysis of the firm life cycle. It remains a relevant topic today. Many articles use models generally associated with one particular discipline (for instance, management or finance). This article proposes an interdisciplinary and area-based approach to company life analysis. To the best of our knowledge, no scholars have conducted such a study before.