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From here to eternity?: The practice of knowledge transfer in dispersed and co-located project organizations

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  • Jonathan Sapsed
  • David Gann
  • Nick Marshall
  • Ammon Salter

Abstract

This paper extends theoretical and empirical debates on knowledge transfer practices in geographically dispersed project teams using a range of communications media. It presents quantitative data comparing work interactions between dispersed and co-located teams in five international, project-based firms. It shows that contrary to conventional wisdom, their respective practices are similar for many work activities such as search and routine information exchange. However dispersed team members validate, verify and consult differently to the respective co-located teams. Qualitative data from interviews and observation then illustrates typical interactions using the differing means and media available to the observed project teams, such as task decomposition and emergency corrective work. Due to an unfortunate oversight one of the references in this article is incomplete. It can be found here.

Suggested Citation

  • Jonathan Sapsed & David Gann & Nick Marshall & Ammon Salter, 2005. "From here to eternity?: The practice of knowledge transfer in dispersed and co-located project organizations," European Planning Studies, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 13(6), pages 831-851, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:eurpls:v:13:y:2005:i:6:p:831-851
    DOI: 10.1080/09654310500187938
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Jankowska, Barbara & Götz, Marta & Główka, Cezary, 2017. "Intra-Cluster Cooperation Enhancing SMEs’ Competitiveness - The Role of Cluster Organisations in Poland," INVESTIGACIONES REGIONALES - Journal of REGIONAL RESEARCH, Asociación Española de Ciencia Regional, issue 39, pages 195-214.
    2. Marina van Geenhuizen & Peter Nijkamp, 2011. "Knowledge Virtualization and Local Connectedness among Smart High-tech Companies," Tinbergen Institute Discussion Papers 11-119/3, Tinbergen Institute.
    3. Noack, Anika, 2022. "Knowledge and Technology Transfer under Digital Conditions: Transfer Intermediaries in Eastern Germany and the Role of Digital Means, Trust and Face-to-Face Interactions," fast track to transfer – Working Paper Series 004, Technical University of Wildau and the Brandenburg Technical University of Cottbus-Senftenberg, Innovation Hub 13 - fast track to transfer.
    4. Margarida Fontes, 2005. "Distant networking: The knowledge acquisition strategies of 'out-cluster' biotechnology firms," European Planning Studies, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 13(6), pages 899-920, September.

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