To what extent Belgian SMEs, can draw inspiration from the performance evaluation practices of an internationally listed group in order to monitor their strategic decisions?

Details

Supervisors

Colin, Karl

Faculty

Louvain School of Management

Degree label

Master [120] : ingénieur de gestion, à finalité spécialisée

Abstract

This dissertation aims to study how small and medium-sized Belgian companies can draw inspiration from the performance evaluation practices of large companies in order to create their own model. Indeed, the growing number of SMEs on the Belgian market only increases competitiveness, leading to a host of strategic decisions on their part. In order to monitor its impact, it is important to understand its performance and often this is done through a KPI dashboard. To do this, we analyzed in depth the practices in terms of evaluating the performance of a listed company to understand the evaluation logic. We then studied the case of several SMEs in order to determine typical profiles with different needs in terms of performance evaluation. And we then compared these needs with the practices of the largest company in order to identify which practices can be modified and adapted to SMEs. Overall, it appears that yes, SMEs can draw inspiration from larger companies, particularly when it comes to monitoring the financial aspect of their business. Finally, this means that theoretically, it would be possible to create a guide for SMEs in order to help them in this task and to teach them the logic of simple indicators which would allow them to anticipate a whole series of risks.