The factors behind the success of asian firms: an example for emerging african firms to emulate a literature review

Purpose of Study: The purpose of this paper is to review literature on the factors behind Asian firms, an example for emerging African firms to emulate. Design and Methodology: This is a literature review. Research limitations/Implications: The idea of SMEs is an old one, as old as when the first business was thought of by the human race. But the factors, philosophy and strategy behind the SMEs success of Asian firms is unique to Asian firms. The review was limited in terms of the theories that explain the process of success of the small and medium enterprises. Practical Implications: The concept of starting a business has to come naturally from the individual without influence of family members, friends, work associates or government policies. This enables the entrepreneur to stands a better change to persevere when conditions are not favouring business performance. Originality/Value: The paper fills the gap in the literature review in that it highlights what has been done by majority of Asian firms and their success secrets and how the same may be replicated by African start-up and emerging firms.