THE EFFECT OF OPERATION MANAGEMENT AND OPEN INNOVATION ON WOMEN-OWNED SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES PERFORMANCE IN VIETNAM

Abstract

Operation management and open innovation are critical determinants of a firm’s competitive advantage and its progression towards organisational success. Consequently, these factors warrant scholarly attention due to their substantial influence on organisational outcomes. Considering this, the present study examines the impact of open innovation and operation management on the performance of women-owned SMEs within the Vietnamese context, thereby addressing a key gap in the existing literature. The study further contributes to the field by investigating the mediating role of competitive advantage. As the focus is on women-owned enterprises, data were exclusively collected from individuals associated with such businesses. Employing the PLS-SEM approach, the findings reveal a significant and positive relationship between open innovation, operation management, and SME performance. Furthermore, the study confirms a significant mediating effect, providing policymakers with insights into enhancing SME performance through effective operation management and open innovation.