Title: Collaborative capability in R&D alliances: exploring the link between organisational- and individual-level factors

Authors: Line Gry Knudsen, Bo Bernhard Nielsen

Addresses: DEA/Danish Business Research Academy, Fiolstraede 44, 1171 Copenhagen K, Denmark. ' Copenhagen Business School & University of Technology Sydney, Center for Strategic Management and Globalization, Porcelaenshaven 24, DK 2000 Frederiksberg, Denmark

Abstract: Utilising the dynamic capabilities perspective, this study examines the role of collaborative capability in R&D alliances with a focus on the interplay between organisational- and individual-level mechanisms. Collaborative capability has predominantly been conceptualised and analysed from a firm-level perspective, whereas the individual-level mechanisms that enable this ability to develop and flourish have been neglected. We explore the development of Novozymes| |Partnering Project| and show how individual-level factors, such as competence development, work in concert with organisational-level strategic and structural mechanisms in creating collaborative capability. Based on an in-depth case study and a review of the literature, we propose a framework to explain the multi-dimensional nature of collaborative capabilities in R&D alliances. Our study shows how firms may benefit from increased attention to the interaction between individual- and organisational-level issues, captured via a partnering mindset, when designing R&D alliances.

Keywords: innovation; collaboration; R&D alliances; dynamic capabilities; organisational practices; competence development.

DOI: 10.1504/IJKMS.2010.030790

International Journal of Knowledge Management Studies, 2010 Vol.4 No.2, pp.152 - 175

Published online: 05 Jan 2010 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article