Organizational Strategies to Grow Mature Small Information Technology Businesses

Standard indicators of slow growth among small businesses are negative job creation and lower tax revenue. Small business success and growth is necessary for increasing productivity, profitability, and job creation. The purpose of this single case study was to explore growth strategies leaders of a mature small information technology (IT) business in the midwestern United States used to grow their organization beyond existing capacity. Data were collected from semistructured interviews and review of organizational documentation. The conceptual framework for the study was general systems theory. The study included a purposeful sample of 2 senior leaders of a mature small IT business. Data gathered from interviews were manually coded and thematically organized. Through thematic analysis that included color coding themes from document review and interview responses, a storyline was developed showing 4 themes: Leadership development, standard operating procedures, succession planning, and long-term growth strategy. Identifying growth strategies may assist leaders of mature small IT businesses to grow beyond existing capacity. The findings of this study have implications for positive social change for leaders of mature small IT businesses and the local community because the information may help leaders of such businesses influence growth and expansion, decrease unemployment, and increase local tax revenue