Standardization catch-up strategy of latecomer enterprises
A longitudinal case of Huawei
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 22230706 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Wei Yang (0000-0001-7249-4386, Huazhong University of Science and Technology), Yurong Zhang (0009-0005-3512-6679, Shanghai University, corresponding author) |
| Year | 2025 |
| Volume | 12 |
| Issue | 1 |
| Publication date | 2025-02-07 |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Humanities and Social Sciences Communications (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 2662-9992 • E-ISSN: 2662-9992 |
| Publisher | Springer Science and Business Media LLC (PUBLISHER) |
| DOI | 10.1057/s41599-025-04464-0 |
| OpenAlex | W4407252432 |
| Language | EN |
| Citations received | 1 |
| References cited | 60 |
The existing theoretical framework fails to explain the behavioral mechanisms employed by latecomer enterprises in their pursuit of standardization catch-up. In order to address this gap, we conducted a comprehensive and structured case study on Huawei’s standardization strategy. Using both deductive and inductive approaches, the findings from our research reveal Huawei’s ‘pyramid standardization strategy’ consisting of four distinct stages: following (1987–2002), defense (2003–2008), breakthrough (2009–2015), and sharing (2016–present). Drawing from the theoretical framework of academic literature on ‘catch-up in standardization’, we propose a ‘standardization catch-up model’ that incorporates three crucial elements: a top-down behavioral foundation, middle-up essential supporting components, and bottom-up culture and values. Furthermore, we identified five key propositions from the Huawei case, which emphasize the importance of R&D investment, low-cost engineers, professional teams, relations with international standards organizations, and open innovation as driving factors. By shedding light on the role of internal capabilities, patent-based innovation, and organizational culture, our research significantly contributes to the understanding of catch-up through standardization strategy
Business · Standardization · Computer Science · Global Trade and Competitiveness · Global trade and economics · International Business and FDI
Catch-up cycles and changes in industrial leadership
The Internationalization of Chinese Firms
Strategies for Theorizing from Process Data
Building Theories from Case Study Research
How do latecomer firms achieve catch-up through technology management
Development of 5G – Identifying organizations active in publishing, patenting, and standardization
Leveraging university research within the context of open innovation
Location, control and innovation in knowledge-intensive industries
Standard-Essential Patents
| Citations per year | 1 |
|---|---|
| Citation span | 2025 - 2025 (1) |
| Highly cited | No |