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Internal Versus External Labour Flexibility: The Role of Knowledge Codification

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  • Caroli, Eve

Abstract

This article uses a competence-based approach to the firm in order to analyse the recent destabilisation of internal labour markets. We argue that increasing knowledge codification made possible by the diffusion of information and communication technologies has made competences less dependent upon individuals. Knowledge has been increasingly embodied in firms themselves, which has played an important role in lowering the relative cost of human resource management strategies based on external labour flexibility. As a consequence, recourse to external labour markets has developed, which may harm firms' innovative capabilities in the long run.

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  • Caroli, Eve, 2007. "Internal Versus External Labour Flexibility: The Role of Knowledge Codification," National Institute Economic Review, National Institute of Economic and Social Research, vol. 201, pages 107-118, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:cup:nierev:v:201:y:2007:i::p:107-118_13
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    Cited by:

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • B52 - Schools of Economic Thought and Methodology - - Current Heterodox Approaches - - - Historical; Institutional; Evolutionary; Modern Monetary Theory;
    • O33 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences; Diffusion Processes
    • M51 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Personnel Economics - - - Firm Employment Decisions; Promotions

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