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The Effect of Employer Networks on Workplace Innovation and Training

Author

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  • Christopher L. Erickson
  • Sanford M. Jacoby

Abstract

If innovative work practices improve performance, why does the intensity of their adoption vary substantially across establishments? Following a lead suggested by some sociological studies, the authors empirically investigate the role of social networks (ties to other organizations) in the organizational learning associated with diffusion of innovative work practices. Using establishment data on formal affiliation and other network measures, they find that managerial participation in networks—specifically, in industry and cross-industry associations, civic organizations, and the internal networks of multi-unit firms—positively affected both the probability that high-performance work practices and employee training programs would be adopted and, where they were adopted, the intensity of their adoption. Furthermore, multiple affiliations raised the likelihood that an establishment would pursue an intensive approach to work reorganization and training.

Suggested Citation

  • Christopher L. Erickson & Sanford M. Jacoby, 2003. "The Effect of Employer Networks on Workplace Innovation and Training," ILR Review, Cornell University, ILR School, vol. 56(2), pages 203-223, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ilrrev:v:56:y:2003:i:2:p:203-223
    DOI: 10.1177/001979390305600201
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

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    2. David Marsden, 2010. "The End of National Models in Employment Relations?," CEP Discussion Papers dp0998, Centre for Economic Performance, LSE.
    3. Manuel Abrantes, 2014. "‘I Know It Sounds Nasty and Stereotyped’: Searching for the Competent Domestic Worker," Gender, Work and Organization, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 21(5), pages 427-442, September.
    4. Jaren Haber, 2016. "Institutionalized Involvement: Teams and Stress in 1990s U.S. Steel," Industrial Relations: A Journal of Economy and Society, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 55(4), pages 632-661, October.
    5. Asma, Hyder & Javaid, Zainab, 2009. "Impact of Training on Earnings: Evidence from Pakistani Industries," MPRA Paper 19570, University Library of Munich, Germany.
    6. Avner Ben-Ner & Stephanie Lluis, 2011. "Learning: What and How? An Empirical Study of Adjustments in Workplace Organization Structure," Industrial Relations: A Journal of Economy and Society, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 50(1), pages 76-108, January.

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