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Knowledge Transfer Mechanisms and Global R&D Operations in MNCs

Author

Listed:
  • Nan Song

    (China Everbright Bank Co. Ltd., Shijiazhuang Branch China Rail Business Plaza 23/FL, 050019 Shijiazhuang, P. R. China)

  • Jinping Zhu

    (School of Business and Engineering, Halmstad University, P. O. Box 823, S30118 Halmstad, Sweden)

  • Jonas Rundquist

    (Center for Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Learning Research (CIEL), School of Business and Engineering, Halmstad University, P. O. Box 823, S30118 Halmstad, Sweden)

Abstract

With the development of globalization, companies will need worldwide resources for R&D. Multinational corporations (MNCs) will rely on their subunits located in different countries for R&D. As a result, knowledge transfer between headquarters and subunits or among subunits will be crucial for MNCs to operate their R&D activities. This study explores the relationship between knowledge transfer and R&D operations, using a qualitative research approach including four multinational companies. We conducted a cross-case analysis connecting four R&D configurations and two knowledge transfer mechanisms: expatriate management policy and communication frequency. Results show that both transfer mechanisms are very important for MNCs for the management of knowledge transfer in global R&D operations. However, each of these mechanisms will need a different focus depending on R&D strategy and configuration. The paper summarizes recommendations for managers as drawn from these insights.

Suggested Citation

  • Nan Song & Jinping Zhu & Jonas Rundquist, 2015. "Knowledge Transfer Mechanisms and Global R&D Operations in MNCs," International Journal of Innovation and Technology Management (IJITM), World Scientific Publishing Co. Pte. Ltd., vol. 12(02), pages 1-18.
    • Handle: RePEc:wsi:ijitmx:v:12:y:2015:i:02:n:s021987701550011x
    DOI: 10.1142/S021987701550011X
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