The aim of this paper is to evaluate how Estonian enterprises understand their position in the value chain, and to explore what kind of behaviour patterns correspond to the different positions. It also aims to focus on the question of whether and how Estonian enterprises see the need to improve their position in the value chain.
The approach is based on an empirical study in the course of which original interviews were conducted on the basis of a common plan (primary sources), and expert opinions were gathered on the basis of earlier studies. Two kinds of sources were analyzed to obtain an overview of the situation in Estonian companies in respect to strategy, and more specifically how companies evaluate their position in the value chain and what their aspirations for future are. First, the figureheads from the enterprises were interviewed in 14 enterprises. Second, expert assessments were drawn up about 25 enterprises. Those compiling the expert opinions possessed prior direct contacts with the enterprises under focus.
First, it was discovered that Estonian enterprises presented three types of behaviour patterns along with their interest in and/or potential for changing their position in the value chain. Second, several behavioural patterns were indicated by what the figureheads had to say about the current economic situation. Third, the main problems in Estonian enterprises were identified.
The study has limitations due to the number of companies that were investigated, and therefore the authors also admit a certain degree of subjectivity in the defining of the behaviour patterns. Nevertheless, this study highlights various issues that Estonian enterprises consider in respect to strategy.
The main value of the paper is its contribution to our understanding of which factors impact the development of Estonian enterprises. This knowledge allows us to analyze how organizations from former Soviet bloc countries can better manage their position in the value chain.
