This paper aims at studying and measuring the influence of SMEs’ top decision makers’ social capital on competitive intelligence practices. To do so, a literature review of both competitive intelligence and social capital fields led us to construct a conceptual model based on four hypotheses. Methodological details of the test model using a PLS approach are outlined Data from 193 questionnaires filled out by high-tech French SMEs, are analysed through a PLS regression. A re-sampling procedure with the construct level change option and 250 re-samples is run. The results provide support for the four hypotheses and so contribute toward improving efficiency of competitive intelligence practices in four fields.

Catherine De La Robertie (2016). Top Managers Networking Influence on Competitive Intelligence Practices: the Case of Hi-Tech SMBs, European Research Studies Journal Volume XIX Issue 4, 158-169