The paradox of technological capabilities: a study of knowledge sourcing from host countries of overseas R&D operations

• 成果类型: Article
• 署名作者: Song, Jaeyong; Shin, Jongtae
• 署名单位: Seoul National University (SNU); Long Island University; Long Island University Post; Columbia University
• 刊物名称: JOURNAL OF INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS STUDIES
• ISSN/ISSBN: 0047-2506
• DOI: 10.1057/palgrave.jibs.8400348
• 发表日期: 2008
• 页码: 291-303
• 关键词: Absorptive capacity; knowledge sourcing; overseas R&D; relative capabilities

摘要

We investigate the factors that influence the extent to which a multinational corporation's headquarters (MNC-HQ) sources knowledge from the host countries of its R&D labs. We propose that the technological capabilities held by MNC-HQs present a paradox. On the one hand, they enhance MNC-HQs' learning capabilities. On the other hand, they reduce MNC-HQs' motivations to outsource knowledge from host countries. We also argue that it is important to consider both relative and absolute levels of technological capabilities, because relative levels can influence MNC-HQs' motivations to source knowledge from host countries. Statistical findings generally support our arguments.