Knowledge search in international cooperative ventures

• 成果类型: Article
• 署名作者: Shenkar, O; Li, JT
• 署名单位: University System of Ohio; Ohio State University; Tel Aviv University; Hong Kong University of Science & Technology
• 刊物名称: ORGANIZATION SCIENCE
• ISSN/ISSBN: 1047-7039
• DOI: 10.1287/orsc.10.2.134
• 发表日期: 1999
• 页码: 134-143
• 关键词: knowledge search; absorptive capacity; international cooperative ventures; knowledge transfer vehicles

摘要

By taking a learning approach to international cooperative ventures, this study introduces absorptive capacity as a principle governing the relationship between knowledge possession and knowledge search among prospective partners. Two alternative hypotheses are juxtaposed: The first is that firms will seek additional knowledge in the same area in which they already have a knowledge base; the second is that firms will seek knowledge in a complementary area. Data from 90 partner-seeking firms in China show that the possession of complementary knowledge is a prerequisite for knowledge search. Furthermore, in line with the learning perspective, the equity joint venture is the vehicle of choice for firms seeking transfer of tacit, embedded knowledge.