Being good or being known: International reputation of high-speed railway enterprises

Abstract

With fierce competition in the global high-speed railway (HSR) market, international reputation has become essential for enterprises to venture into overseas markets. However, few studies have been performed on the international reputation of HSR enterprises. This study aims to reveal the formation mechanism of HSR enterprises’ international reputation by developing a theoretical framework. The researchers identified five factors and proposed a hypothetical path model based on a comprehensive literature review. After the pilot study, questionnaires were distributed to practitioners in the international HSR industry for data collection. The path model was validated based on partial least-squares structural equation modeling. Eight of the nine paths are statistically supported. Researchers have structured a theoretical framework for the international reputation of HSR enterprises from two perspectives: Being good and being known. Subsequently, a strategic framework was developed to provide targeted promotion strategies for HSR enterprises. The findings of this study contribute to existing international reputation theories using the theoretical model and provide beneficial guidance for HSR enterprises to improve their international reputation through a strategic framework.