Title: Knowledge transfer practices in Japanese-affiliated manufacturers in Malaysia

Authors: Mohammad Reza Ebrahimi Seighalan; Peter Charles Woods

Addresses: Faculty of Creative Multimedia, Multimedia University, Jalan Multimedia, 63000 Cyberjaya, Selangor, Malaysia ' Faculty of Creative Multimedia, Multimedia University, Jalan Multimedia, 63000 Cyberjaya, Selangor, Malaysia

Abstract: This paper examines the perceived influence of knowledge characteristics (KCs) and knowledge types (KTs) on knowledge transfer practices (KTPs) among two types of Japanese-affiliated manufacturers in Peninsular Malaysia: wholly-owned subsidiaries (WOSs) and joint ventures (JVs). Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire with 141 top, middle and technical staff respondents. Data were then analysed using multiple regression analysis. In the case of WOSs, the results suggest the effects of KCs, Ambiguity and Cultural Distance have the most significant influence on KTPs. Additionally, systematic knowledge has the most significant impact on KTPs in comparison with Strategic and Technical knowledge which are not significant. On the contrary, the findings of JVs suggest the effects of KCs, Ambiguity, Complexity and Partner Protectiveness have significant influence on KTPs. Similarly, systematic knowledge shows significant impact but in negative direction on KTPs among JVs while strategic and technical knowledge has no significant on KTPs.

Keywords: knowledge transfer practices; KTPs; knowledge characteristics; KCs; knowledge types; KTs; strategic knowledge; systematic knowledge; technical knowledge; Japanese-affiliated manufacturer; wholly owned subsidiary; WOS; joint venture; JV.

DOI: 10.1504/IJKMS.2018.091247

International Journal of Knowledge Management Studies, 2018 Vol.9 No.2, pp.103 - 128

Received: 25 Oct 2016
Accepted: 06 Jul 2017

Published online: 17 Apr 2018 *

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