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Abstract
The present work attempts based on the analysis of linear structure equation
models, to compile regulation factors of the success of agricultural enterprises at
the management level. For generation and evaluation reasons, the findings from
the factor research are the focus of the study. After introducing the topic of
success factor research, current empirical methods are compared based on their
explanatory potential. As a result of the comparison, it was decided to apply a
confirmatory approach.
Linear structure equation models with latent variables are applied to the database.
The explanation of the method occurs in chapter 3. They are applied on the
factor analysis as well as the path analysis because linear structural equation
models concern both.
In the following, the database, which is based on the results of annual financial
statements of agricultural enterprises from southern Saxony-Anhalt, is introduced.
Following, there occurs the characterisation and discussion of the data.
The next chapter contains the results of the partial analytical investigation of
possible variables which may influence the success of agricultural enterprises.
Embedded in a theoretical framework, the basic theoretical hypotheses were
formulated. The theoretical basis of research hypotheses is based on the management
model for enterprises, which makes a distinction between management
level and other dimensions of business administration. Based on these results,
and on the results of the descriptive evaluation, concrete research hypotheses are
formulated. The hypotheses imply a positive effect of the single dimensions of
business administration, such as market orientation, technology orientation, cost
orientation and resource orientation, on enterprise success.
The hypotheses are tested in factor-analytic models, and structured equation
models of the first and second order are discussed regarding content. As a result,
production and costs orientation and market orientation most affect enterprise
success. Therefore, the influence of management and business administration
were found to be factors of success in different performance data. However, the
results are to be interpreted in the scope of the formulated models.