Scientific versus intuitive entrepreneurial action: Antecedents and performance outcomes.

Our study investigates the antecedents and performance consequences of scientific versus intuitive entrepreneurial action. Applying a mixed-method approach, we first use qualitative data from 50 interviews to develop a conceptual model that links the entrepreneurs' imprints--formative experiences in life with either positive or negative connotation--to the adopted entrepreneurial action (intuitive versus scientific), and finally to the venture's success. We then conduct a quantitative analysis with 233 ventures that tests and lends empirical support to the propositions derived in the qualitative study. We find that positive imprints are linked to intuitive action, which is related to limited venture success. In contrast, negative imprints are linked to scientific action, which is related to pronounced venture success. Our study contributes to the literatures on the micro-foundations of entrepreneurial action, new venture strategy, and imprinting theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]