Family-Based Vs Institutionalised Educational Governance In Small And Micro Enterprises: Comparative Legal And WTO-Policy Educational Perspectives

Abstract

Purpose: This study examines how family-based versus institutionalised Educational governance shapes Chinese small and micro enterprises (SMEs), focusing on decision-making, regulatory compliance, stakeholder engagement, and legal adherence. It also analyses how World Trade Organization (WTO) policies. Such as small and micro enterprises support and dispute-resolution frameworks interact with China’s legal regime to influence Educational governance choices.

Method: A qualitative systematic literature review, following PRISMA, screened 100 records (2019–2025) across Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, JSTOR, and SSRN. Applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 8 studies were retained for thematic synthesis. Evidence on Educational governance practices, compliance, and policy context was extracted and analysed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis. Findings: Three themes emerged. First, family-based Educational governance centres on concentrated authority and trust-based control, enabling agility and long-term orientation but sometimes constraining innovation and formalised compliance. Second, institutionalised Educational governance introduces boards, external managers, and internal controls that strengthen transparency, risk management, and resource access, while broadening attention to external stakeholders. Third, WTO-level norms, emphasising trade transparency and uniform compliance nudge SMEs toward formal Educational governance to meet global expectations, although smaller firms face capacity and cost constraints and depend on domestic support for implementation.

Implications: Family-based Educational governance remains culturally resonant and effective for speed and continuity, whereas institutionalised Educational governance tends to enhance regulatory reliability, investor confidence, and ESG performance as firms internationalise. Policy should prioritise Educational governance capacity-building for family-run SMEs and tailor WTO-related support simplified procedures, accessible redress, and targeted facilitation to small-firm realities. The review informs scholars, owners, and policymakers seeking balanced Educational governance pathways that leverage both models for sustainable small and micro enterprises development in China.