The effects of inter-organizational compatibility on knowledge transfer in cross-border M&As

Abstract

Purpose

The study adopts congruence theory to explore the structure of inter-organizational compatibility and its structural effects on knowledge transfer in cross-border merger and acquisitions (M&As).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper built a moderated-mediation model that presented the relationship between inter-organizational compatibility and knowledge transfer. Regression analysis was conducted with 182 samples from China to examine the model and hypotheses.

Findings

The results indicate that inter-organizational compatibility is a four-dimensional construct comprising culture, strategy, routine and knowledge. Additionally, inter-organizational compatibility has structural effects on knowledge transfer. Specifically, routine compatibility mediates the relationships between cultural compatibility and knowledge transfer and between strategic compatibility and knowledge transfer. Moreover, the mediating roles are moderated by knowledge compatibility.

Originality/value

This study updates the construct and provides a comprehensive and fresh understanding of inter-organizational compatibility. Additionally, it presents the structural effects of inter-organizational compatibility on knowledge transfer.

Citation

Qi, Y., Wang, X., Li, Y., Zhang, G. and Jin, H. (2021), "The effects of inter-organizational compatibility on knowledge transfer in cross-border M&As", Management Decision, Vol. 59 No. 9, pp. 2123-2142. https://doi.org/10.1108/MD-03-2020-0349