Does Knowledge Sharing Pay? An MNC Subsidiary Perspective on Knowledge Outflows

Volker Mahnke, Torben Pedersen, Markus Venzin

    Publikation: Working paperForskning

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    Abstract

    This empirical paper explores knowledge outflow from MNC subsidiaries and its impact on the MNC performance. We develop and test hypotheses derived from literature on MNC knowledge flows integrated with the perspective of knowledge-creating, self-interested MNC subsidiaries. The hypotheses are developed using a simultaneous equation model applied to a unique dataset encompassing a German MNC, HeidelbergCement. Enablers and impediments of knowledge outflows are assessed in order to explain why subsidiaries share their knowledge with other MNC units. Implications are examined by studying the link between knowledge outflows and subsidiary performance. Our findings suggest that knowledge outflows increase a subsidiary's performance only up to a certain point and that too much knowledge sharing may be detrimental to the contributing subsidiary's performance.
    OriginalsprogEngelsk
    UdgivelsesstedKøbenhavn
    UdgiverCenter for Strategic Management and Globalization
    Antal sider35
    ISBN (Trykt)8791815193
    StatusUdgivet - 2006
    NavnSMG Working Paper
    Nummer3/2006

    Citationsformater