Relationship between the transfer of knowledge and innovation: results of an empirical study of knowledge-intensive industries

This paper analyzes the effect of several antecedent variables such as the holistic vision of the organization, competence management, lifelong learning and technical infrastructure of information technology in knowledge transfer and their impact on innovation performance. The working hypotheses are tested in a survey of 222 companies in the biotechnology and telecommunications industries where knowledge transfer plays a mediating role. Structural equation models provide results with a practical application for managers in the study companies because knowledge transfer requires an emphasis on creating a holistic view in the organization, competence management, promotion of continuous learning and improvement of the technical infrastructure of information technology. The study also shows that companies which disseminate knowledge appropriately obtain better results in innovation.

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