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Article
Publication date: 9 December 2019

Redesigning the model of the initiation and evolution of inter-firm knowledge transfer in R&D relationships

Francesco Galati and Barbara Bigliardi

Starting from the model of the initiation and evolution of inter-firm knowledge transfer in R&D relationships developed by Faems et al. (2007), the purpose of this paper…

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Abstract

Purpose

Starting from the model of the initiation and evolution of inter-firm knowledge transfer in R&D relationships developed by Faems et al. (2007), the purpose of this paper is to refine and improve this model, assessing its reliability in a different and wider context and extending it according to the outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

A multiple case-study approach was implemented, examining 34 dyadic inter-firm R&D relationships. This methodology suited the research goal of exploring the validity of a model in an area where little data or theory exists.

Findings

The theoretical model proposed by Faems et al. (2007) was improved, confirming the adequacy of the overall structure of their intuition and highlighting several differences in terms of factors that lead to the dissolution of R&D relationships. These differences mainly refer to partners’ similarities before starting R&D relationships, co-opetition situations, knowledge leakage/opportunistic behavior and reputation issues.

Originality/value

This work is the first to investigate two open research gaps related to the model of the initiation and evolution of inter-firm knowledge transfer in R&D relationships: the need for additional case studies in other contexts to develop a more general theory and the lack of research incorporating issues such as relational capital between partners, governance form and alliance scope in an integrated analysis.

Details

Journal of Knowledge Management, vol. 23 no. 10
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/JKM-05-2018-0326
ISSN: 1367-3270

Keywords

  • Governance
  • Trust
  • Knowledge creation
  • Evolution
  • R&D
  • Knowledge transfer
  • Relationships
  • Collaboration
  • Initiation
  • Inter-firm knowledge transfer
  • R&D relationship
  • Dissolution

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Book part
Publication date: 24 October 2015

Enhancing Organizational Performance of International SMEs through Inter-Firm Marketing Collaborations

Kayhan Tajeddini, Ulf Elg and Pervez N. Ghauri

The purpose of this study is to assess the effect of three key inter-firm orientations often regarded as central and challenging capabilities within the marketing…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to assess the effect of three key inter-firm orientations often regarded as central and challenging capabilities within the marketing literature namely (i) market orientation, (ii) entrepreneurial orientation and (iii) brand orientation and their effects on the business performance of a focal international SME.

Methodology/approach

The study is based upon a sample of 104 Swiss international firms and a questionnaire is used to capture their inter-firm marketing collaborations. Existing, well-established scales for market, brand, and entrepreneurial orientation were used and modified to capture the inter-firm dimension. The data was analysed using regression analysis.

Findings

Inter-firm market and entrepreneurial orientation have a significant positive influence of both market and financial performance. However, no significant impact was found for inter-firm brand orientation.

Originality/value

We show that collaboration within the marketing area is of critical importance for international SME in order to enhance their performance. Dealing with the increasing complexity and uncertainty in the global environment, we argue that international SMEs are especially dependent on improving their marketing collaborations in order to strengthen their competitive advantage. One main contribution is also to conceptualize and operationalize inter-firm marketing collaborations into a measurable empirical phenomenon, including scales that can also be used by other researchers in future studies.

Details

International Marketing in the Fast Changing World
Type: Book
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/S1474-797920150000026006
ISBN: 978-1-78560-233-7

Keywords

  • Inter-firm collaboration
  • market orientation
  • entrepreneurial orientation
  • brand orientation
  • international SMEs

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Book part
Publication date: 10 September 2018

The Impact of Inter-Firm Collaborations on SME Internationalisation

Pervez N. Ghauri and Ulf Elg

Several studies have proposed that small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) lack resources and experiential knowledge to internationalise to distant markets. The authors…

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Abstract

Several studies have proposed that small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) lack resources and experiential knowledge to internationalise to distant markets. The authors argue that SMEs can handle the lack of these tangible and intangible internal resources through external collaborations; they can achieve success in international markets by collaborating with business partners. The role of inter-firm marketing collaboration and its impact on internationalisation efforts has not been thoroughly studied, particularly in the context of SMEs. This study will thus advance our understanding of SMEs’ inter-firm marketing collaborations and how they influence performance in international markets. In this chapter, authors conceptually develop this line of arguments through an extensive literature review and develop some hypotheses and a framework that can be empirically tested. The authors believe this framework will serve as a starting point for further studies on this topic. Theoretically, we endeavour to contribute by showing that firms can enhance their level of international performance through inter-firm collaboration. The authors believe this type of study would have considerable theoretical as well as managerial implications in this important field of research.

Details

Key Success Factors of SME Internationalisation: A Cross-Country Perspective
Type: Book
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/S1876-066X20180000034003
ISBN: 978-1-78754-277-8

Keywords

  • Inter-firm collaboration
  • SME internationalisation
  • external resources
  • developing a model

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Article
Publication date: 3 June 2019

Cultural factors of network inter-firm cooperation

Evgeny Popov, Jol Stoffers and Victoria Simonova

The purpose of this study is to specify cultural properties that influence inter-firm cooperation, advancing a conventional theoretical economic-based framework.

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to specify cultural properties that influence inter-firm cooperation, advancing a conventional theoretical economic-based framework.

Design/methodology/approach

An evaluation of concepts related to parametric cultural assessment was the theoretical foundation for structural aspects of inter-firm collaboration, documented in an empirical study that investigates cross-cultural analysis. This study was based on research at a cross-national level, allowing cultural disparities to be captured. Therefore, the empirical basis was the sixth World Values Survey, which is the largest cross-national project for assessment of cultural values.

Findings

It was found that cultural properties, as freedom of choice; advancement of norms for equal dissemination of power; low perceived uncertainty; strategic orientation on the future; and spread norms of humanistic orientation would further develop inter-firm cooperation.

Practical implications

The current study specifies a systematic and practical definition of attributes in the culture of inter-firm collaboration. Advantages of such advanced frameworks are more sustainable collaboration models, decreased expenses of inter-firm coordination methods and possibilities for establishing network knowledge among collaborating firms – a necessity for competitive advantage in today’s global economy.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no previous research has been undertaken that specifies cultural properties influencing inter-firm cooperation, advancing a conventional theoretical economic-based framework.

Details

Review of International Business and Strategy, vol. 29 no. 2
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/RIBS-09-2018-0085
ISSN: 2059-6014

Keywords

  • World Values Survey
  • Networks
  • Cultural factors
  • Inter-firm cooperation

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Article
Publication date: 8 November 2011

Inter‐firm customer knowledge sharing in logistics services: an empirical study

Minna Rollins, Saara Pekkarinen and Mari Mehtälä

The purpose of this paper is to examine customer knowledge sharing between a buyer of a logistics service and the logistics service provider (LSP). The authors attempt to…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine customer knowledge sharing between a buyer of a logistics service and the logistics service provider (LSP). The authors attempt to fill the gap in current research by investigating inter‐firm customer knowledge sharing.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey study was conducted. Data were collected from buyers of logistic services. Confirmatory factor analysis and multiple regression were used to analyze data and test hypotheses.

Findings

Results suggest that open and fluent communication mediates the relationship between customer knowledge sharing and satisfaction with a logistics service provider. In addition, the close relationship with the logistics service provider is needed to strengthen the relationship between customer knowledge sharing and satisfaction with the logistics service provider.

Research limitations/implications

This study provided new empirical evidence concerning inter‐firm customer knowledge sharing. The authors suggest that logistic service providers should be incorporated into the customer knowledge management process to ensure open and fluent communication about customers.

Practical implications

This study provides practical insights for companies that sell logistic services.

Originality/value

Customer knowledge sharing has been largely studied in an intra‐firm context, for instance information sharing between marketing and research and development departments. This research extends the concept of customer knowledge sharing to the inter‐firm context.

Details

International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, vol. 41 no. 10
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/09600031111185239
ISSN: 0960-0035

Keywords

  • Customer information
  • Customer relations
  • Logistics management
  • Business‐to‐business markets
  • Supply chain collaboration
  • Customer knowledge
  • Logistic services

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Article
Publication date: 15 January 2020

Odd couple collaborations and making them tick!

Pushkar P. Jha and Lorraine Johnston

Be it about blending intangibles to deliver to market needs or directed at fulfilling aspirations pushing at technological frontiers, inter-firm collaborations across…

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Abstract

Purpose

Be it about blending intangibles to deliver to market needs or directed at fulfilling aspirations pushing at technological frontiers, inter-firm collaborations across industry boundaries are much in vogue. This paper aims to classify some collaborations as “odd couple collaborations”. These are fuelled more by aspirations of the partner firms, and not as much by market pull. The study provides key distinguishing characteristics for these and an understanding of what makes them tick.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on secondary sources in the public domain to understand the motives and performance of several inter-firm collaborations. Odd couple collaborations are examined and some essential performance enablers are highlighted.

Findings

A typology that distinguishes odd couple collaborations from other inter-firm collaborations is drawn out. Analysing the performance of such collaborations, and a need for partners to work on the visibility and appeal of such collaborations, is discussed. Stringent market evaluation of the offering and careful creative blending of intangibles are also highlighted as key enablers.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to a vast body of research on inter-sector or distant collaborations by isolating and examining a niche that is fast becoming pronounced. The analysis of odd couple collaborations provides cues for effective strategies for superior value from such collaborations. As organisations constantly seek to extend their innovative potential, these insights may prove useful for both practice and research.

Details

European Business Review, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/EBR-08-2018-0138
ISSN: 0955-534X

Keywords

  • Aspirations
  • Open innovation
  • Market needs
  • Inter-firm collaborations
  • Technology spaces
  • Markets

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Article
Publication date: 23 February 2010

Using grounded theory method for theory building in operations management research: A study on inter‐firm relationship governance

Mario Binder and John S. Edwards

Qualitative theory building approaches, such as grounded theory method (GTM), are still not very widespread and rigorously applied in operations management (OM) research…

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Abstract

Purpose

Qualitative theory building approaches, such as grounded theory method (GTM), are still not very widespread and rigorously applied in operations management (OM) research. Yet it is agreed that more systematic observation of current industrial phenomena is necessary to help managers deal with their problems. The purpose of this paper is to provide an example to help guide other researchers on using GTM for theory building in OM research.

Design/methodology/approach

A GTM study in the German automotive industry consisting of 31 interviews is followed by a validation stage comprising a survey (110 responses) and a focus group.

Findings

The result is an example of conducting GTM research in OM, illustrated by the development of the novel collaborative enterprise governance framework for inter‐firm relationship governance in the German automotive industry.

Research limitations/implications

GTM is appropriate for qualitative theory building research, but the resultant theories need further testing. Research is necessary to identify the transferability of the collaborative enterprise governance concept to other industries than automotive, to other organisational areas than R&D and to product and service settings that are less complex and innovative.

Practical implications

The paper helps researchers make more informed use of GTM when engaging in qualitative theory building research in OM.

Originality/value

There is a lack of explicit and well‐informed use of GTM in OM research because of poor understanding. This paper addresses this deficiency. The collaborative enterprise governance framework is a significant contribution in an area of growing importance within OM.

Details

International Journal of Operations & Production Management, vol. 30 no. 3
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/01443571011024610
ISSN: 0144-3577

Keywords

  • Operations management
  • Qualitative research
  • Automotive industry
  • Germany

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Article
Publication date: 27 April 2010

Collaborative product development: Exploring the role of internal coordination capability in supplier involvement

Changyue Luo, Debasish N. Mallick and Roger G. Schroeder

This paper aims to examine the impact of internal coordination capability on supplier involvement.

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Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the impact of internal coordination capability on supplier involvement.

Design/methodology/approach

Hypothesized relationships are tested using confirmatory factor analysis and hierarchical linear regression models.

Findings

It was found that internal coordination capability and supplier involvement effort have a positive effect on collaborative product development (CPD) performance. In addition, internal coordination capability positively moderates the relationship between supplier involvement and CPD performance.

Research limitations/implications

The study used targets or goals as the standard for measuring all scales in CPD performance. Although, this approach has several advantages and it is widely reported in the literature, it fails to account for the aggressiveness of the goals or targets as well as relative importance of the metrics.

Practical implications

Managers attempting to gain short‐term benefits through increased collaboration scope will risk negative CPD performance unless they are willing to invest significant effort in supplier involvement to reduce the transaction cost.

Originality/value

Unlike existing literature which focuses either on internal integration or external integration, this study focuses on their interaction. It provides empirical evidence that internal coordination capability has a direct and an indirect impact (as moderator) on CPD performance.

Details

European Journal of Innovation Management, vol. 13 no. 2
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/14601061011040276
ISSN: 1460-1060

Keywords

  • Product development
  • Outsourcing
  • Knowledge sharing
  • Project management
  • Research and development
  • Innovation

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Article
Publication date: 15 September 2020

Modes of collaboration in open innovation practice of pharmaceutical firms in India: the analysis of survey and patent data

Vinita Krishna and Sudhir K. Jain

Patents as one of the important components of intellectual capital are emerging as a new source for mining insights on open innovation (OI) practice of the organizations…

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Abstract

Purpose

Patents as one of the important components of intellectual capital are emerging as a new source for mining insights on open innovation (OI) practice of the organizations. Their role in value creation through collaboration and the inter-firm differences is yet to be explored in depth.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve the aim, survey data is analyzed to rank OI practices (collaboration) of the firms, while patent data are analyzed to carry out descriptive and bivariate analysis to study the inter-firm differences in collaboration.

Findings

The survey findings highlight mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and patent pooling as the top two preferred modes of OI, while from patent data M&A has emerged as a predominant OI practice for mainly nonresident firms. At the firm level characteristics, out of firm age, number of granted patents and firm size, firm age has been found to be somewhat significant in few cases of OI practices.

Research limitations/implications

It provides an alternative source, in this case patent data to study open innovation capabilities of firms in India. There is contribution to the patent value theory from profit motive to deriving strategic decisions on collaboration.

Practical implications

The managerial implications of this study lie in realizing granted patents as important business tools for seeking collaboration, tracing competitive intelligence and the geography of innovation of the firms' competitors.

Originality/value

The dataset of granted patents at the Indian Patent office (2005–2017), the sample of pharmaceutical firms drawn from this list of patents, patent data– based OI insights and the use of multiple imputation technique to missing data for meaningful insights are some of the unique aspects of this paper.

Details

Journal of Intellectual Capital, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/JIC-04-2020-0113
ISSN: 1469-1930

Keywords

  • Intellectual capital
  • Mergers and acquisitions
  • Collaboration
  • Open innovation practices
  • Patent data
  • Pharmaceutical firms

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Article
Publication date: 16 March 2012

Collaborative knowledge management practices: Theoretical development and empirical analysis

Yulong Li, Monideepa Tarafdar and S. Subba Rao

The purpose of this paper is to develop and empirically test a framework analyzing the relationship of collaborative knowledge management practices (CKMP) with supply…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop and empirically test a framework analyzing the relationship of collaborative knowledge management practices (CKMP) with supply chain integration and supply chain knowledge quality.

Design/methodology/approach

The design of the study is based on a survey of 411 firms from eight manufacturing industries that are actively involved in inter‐firm knowledge management practices with supply chain partners. First a measurement instrument for CKMP was statistically validated with confirmatory factor analysis. Then the structural equation modeling (SEM) path analysis was used to assess the structural relationship of CKMP with supply chain knowledge quality and supply chain integration.

Findings

The study found that engagement in CKMP can lead to better integration between supply chain partners and increased organizational knowledge quality.

Research limitations/implications

The study was conducted at the firm level for activities involving inter‐firm knowledge sharing. Some measurement inaccuracy might be generated with a single respondent from each organization answering questions about both supply chain management issues and knowledge management‐related issues.

Practical implications

By identifying collaborative knowledge generation, storage, access, dissemination and application as the major components of CKMP, this study advises organizations on how to collaborate with partner firms on sharing supply chain knowledge. CKMP's positive relationship with knowledge quality and supply chain integration provides organizations with practice‐related motivation for engaging in collaborative knowledge management and alerts them to the possibility of other potential benefits from it.

Originality/value

As one of the first large‐scale empirical efforts to systematically investigate collaborative knowledge management processes in a supply chain management context, this paper can be used as basis for enhanced homological understanding of this domain, by exploring antecedents and consequences of collaborative knowledge management.

Details

International Journal of Operations & Production Management, vol. 32 no. 4
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/01443571211223077
ISSN: 0144-3577

Keywords

  • United States of America
  • Knowledge management
  • Supply chain management
  • Collaborative knowledge management
  • Knowledge quality
  • Supply chain integration

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