University of Twente Student Theses
Developing a practical barometer for measuring future trust and investment willingness in Dutch SMEs, an iterative Design Science Research Approach
Velde, M.G. te (2025) Developing a practical barometer for measuring future trust and investment willingness in Dutch SMEs, an iterative Design Science Research Approach.
|
PDF
4MB |
| Abstract: | In today’s rapidly changing and uncertain business environment, trust emerges as a critical factor in the adaptive capacity of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This study introduces the concept of future trust—the confidence individuals or organizations hold in their ability to navigate and thrive in evolving markets shaped by internal resources and external disruptions. Adopting a Design Science Research (DSR) approach, the research develops and validates the Future Trust Barometer, a diagnostic instrument designed to assess future-oriented trust within SMEs. Through iterative refinement—including a focus group with SME practitioners (N=6) and expert validation interviews (n=4)—the tool integrates theoretical insight with empirical relevance. The resulting framework offers both a conceptual contribution and a practical means to evaluate strategic trust orientations, scenario-readiness, and investment confidence under future uncertainty. Implications for application and avenues for further research are discussed. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 85 business administration, organizational science |
| Programme: | Business Administration MSc (60644) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/106393 |
| Export this item as: | BibTeX EndNote HTML Citation Reference Manager |
Show download statistics for this publication
Show download statistics for this publicationRepository Staff Only: item control page