Knowledge Search in International Cooperative Ventures
Organization Science · 1999 · Volume 10 · Issue 2
Abstract
By taking a learning approach to international cooperative ventures, this study introduces absorptive capacity as a principle governing the relationship between knowledge possession and knowledge search among prospective partners. Two alternative hypotheses are juxtaposed: The first is that firms will seek additional knowledge in the same area in which they already have a knowledge base; the second is that firms will seek knowledge in a complementary area. Data from 90 partner-seeking firms in China show that the possession of complementary knowledge is a prerequisite for knowledge search. Furthermore, in line with the learning perspective, the equity joint venture is the vehicle of choice for firms seeking transfer of tacit, embedded knowledge.
Keywords
Knowledge search, Absorptive capacity, International cooperative ventures, Knowledge transfer vehicles
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