Theory and practice in SME performance measurement systems

Describes research undertaken to evaluate. the appropriateness of strategic performance measurement (PID system development processes for small- and m edium-sized enterprises (SMEs). An evaluation is undertaken of ten RW appro aches found in the literature. To facilitate this evaluation a typology is presented which synthesises current theory. This evaluation resulted in the identification of a process, based on its congruency to the theoretical mo del, which is used for an empirical investigation. Empirical data from SMEs is collected and analysed using the typology. This indicates a discontinui ty between current theory and the requirements of practitioners in small co mpanies. The paper concludes with a number of recommendations to facilitate the development of appropriate PM Processes for SMES.