Scaling Challenges of High-Tech SMEs developing Internet of Things Technology

Abstract

This paper is a review of the organizational structure and challenges that a technological enterprise faces during scaling, from the perspective of the engineering management. After expanding operations internationally, the distributed engineering teams developing hardware and software for internet of things applications, face issues regarding culture, communication, leadership, project planning and management. Relevant literature addressing these issues is presented. We elaborate on already implemented measures for improving the overall efficiency and propose further processes introduced in recent literature that can be beneficial for further optimizing the new product development. Potential knock-on effects by such implementation are also discussed.