Technology transfer on joint venture projects in developing countries

International joint ventures between contractors in developed and developing countries are recognized as a potential means of enhancing the construction expertise of nationals of developing countries, and offer many advantages and disadvantages to its partners. This paper reports on the technology transfer experiences of eight top UK contractors in joint ventures with contractors from developing countries. Twelve joint ventures, categorized into geographical regions, are used as case studies. The rationale for regional and inter-regional variations are analysed and discussed. The issues addressed are the need for technology transfer and the mechanisms used to transfer technology on these joint ventures. The difficulties experienced in transferring technology are discussed, with suggestions to minimize these difficulties with the aim of improving the technology transfer process on future projects. The conclusions show UK contractors are eager to demonstrate that they transfer technology but it only works t...