MARKET TRACKING, RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT AND INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION: AN EXAMINATION OF LINKAGES TO PROFITABILITY

This study evaluated the linkages among market tracking, research & development (R&D), international competition and firm profitability. Over six hundred electronic and computer manufacturers were surveyed. Results show a clear linkage between market tracking, R&D and increased profitability. The study found no linkage between international competition and profitability. These findings are useful benchmarks for marketing managers in understanding the contributions these practices and variables make to the financial performance of the firm.