The Six-Stage Model for Driving Profitable Growth in a Company: A Delphi Study

Abstract

<p>This article introduces Stage Model of Profitable Growth (SSMPG). The SSMPG model is compared to the prevailing Death Valley development model and the Startup growth company development models. The article presents the most critical factors for SMEs' profitable growth at different growth stages as part of the SSMPG model. SSMPG model emphasizes sales, profitability, and leadership, while debt-driven growth is emphasized in two other alternative approaches. The model was created using the Delphi method as a research methodology. Entrepreneurs and company managers who have gone through the stages of growth have acted as peer-reviewing experts in the Delphi expert panel. Start-ups benefit from applying the profitable growth model, shortening the unprofitable period, and leading to an economically sustainable path. Based on the research results, the KasvuApp software application, which can be used on mobile devices and computers, has been created to support profitable growth management in companies.<br></p>