How has the family firm literature addressed its heterogeneity through classification systems? An integrated analysis

Authors

  • Remedios Hernández-Linares Centro Universitario de Mérida, University of Extremadura , Avda. Santa Teresa de Jornet. 38, 06800 Mérida (Badajoz), Spain Spain
  • Soumodip Sarkar CEFAGE-UE and Department of Management, University of Évora, Palácio do Vimioso (Gab. 224), Largo Marquês de Marialva, 8, 7000-809 Évora, Portugal Portugal
  • Mª Concepción López-Fernández Facultad de CC, Económicas y Empresariales, University of Cantabria , Avda. de los Castros, 54, 39005 Santander (Cantabria) , Spain Spain

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24310/ejfbejfb.v7i1-2.5013

Keywords:

Heterogeneidad de la empresa familiar, Tipología de empresas familiares, Clasificación de empresas familiares, Análisis de co-palabras, Taxonomía

Abstract

Extant literature recognizes both family business heterogeneity and the need to identify relevant definitional criteria to distinguish family firms, leading to the emergence of typologies, taxonomies and classification schemes. This paper presents a comprehensive review of existing classifications, which we the compare with the core conceptual elements embedded in 258 family business definitions. Our analyses enables an identification of the characteristics of the entities being classified, and then we proceed to reflect on their usefulness and effectiveness for classifying family firms. Based on the integrated analysis, we then propose some recommendations and future research lines in order to develop a workable classification of family firms.

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Published

2017-06-28

How to Cite

Hernández-Linares, R., Sarkar, S., & López-Fernández, M. C. (2017). How has the family firm literature addressed its heterogeneity through classification systems? An integrated analysis. European Journal of Family Business, 7(1-2). https://doi.org/10.24310/ejfbejfb.v7i1-2.5013

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Research article