Title: Knowledge and technology transfer grid: empirical assessment

Authors: Tae Kyung Sung, David V. Gibson

Addresses: College of Business, Kyonggi University, #94-6 Yiui-Dong, Youngtong-Gu, Suwon, Kyonggi-Do 443-760, Korea. ' IC2 Institute, The University of Texas, Austin 2815 San Gabriel, Austin, TX 78705, USA

Abstract: Most current literature on knowledge and technology transfer (Appropriability Model, Dissemination Model, and Knowledge Utilization Model), provides models and descriptions of the processes of transfer, but these models are limited in terms of their application in contemporary high-tech industries since most studies do not provide plausible explanations on key behavioural factors affecting the transfer of knowledge and/or technology. Based on the literature, 16 research variables are identified as affecting the process and results of knowledge and technology transfer. Survey results indicate four key factors to accelerating knowledge and technology transfer: Communication, Distance, Equivocality, and Motivation. Data analyses show that there are four distinctive clusters that demonstrate contrasting characteristics in terms of these four factors. The careful mapping of the four clusters on the four factors indicates informative knowledge and technology transfer patterns. Finally, actions to increase communication interactivity and motivation, and to reduce cultural distance and equivocality are suggested.

Keywords: knowledge management; technology transfer; organisational communication; interorganisation collaboration; knowledge transfer; interorganisational alliances; organisational culture; motivation; high-tech industries.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTM.2005.005997

International Journal of Technology Management, 2005 Vol.29 No.3/4, pp.216 - 230

Published online: 19 Jan 2005 *

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