Date of Conferral

2022

Degree

Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.)

School

Information Systems and Technology

Advisor

Ify S. Diala-Nettles

Abstract

In the United States, approximately 50% of small businesses fail within the first five years (Small Business Administration, 2018b). Small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) owners and managers would benefit from strategies to identify and mitigate constraints to sustain their business beyond the first five years of business operation. Grounded in the system theory framework, the purpose of this qualitative multiple case study was to explore strategies leaders of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) in Austin, Texas, used to grow and sustain their business’s operations beyond five years. The participants were five small and medium sized businesses owners in Austin, Texas. Data were collected via semistructured, virtual interviews, company documents, and member checking. Data were analyzed using Yin's five-step analysis process, resulting in three emergent themes: strong relationships lead to business sustainability, high quality of services is the best marketing tool, and challenges to business sustainability. The key recommendation is to implement or improve growth and survival strategies by improving service quality and ensuring good customer and staff relationships. The implications for positive social change include the potential for owners of small and medium sized businesses to enhance job creation, economic growth, and the promotion of sustainable communities.

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