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The heterogeneity of internationalisation in knowledge intensive business services

Author

Listed:
  • Peiker Wolfdietrich

    (Berlin)

  • Pflanz Kai

    (Berlin)

  • Kujath Hans Joachim

    (Berlin)

  • Kulke Elmar

    (Berlin)

Abstract

The general process of internationalisation of knowledge intensive business services (KIBS) is widely recognised, but knowledge of the forms, motivations and spatial patterns of this type of internationalisation remains limited. This article addresses this gap by comparing the sectors of legal services and engineering consulting, which differ in their specific service characteristics. Based on an analysis of the office networks of international firms, we attempt to identify typical patterns of international expansion and examine the heterogeneity among the firms in both sectors. We reveal that the specific service characteristics, especially in terms of knowledge and client relationship, influence significantly the spatial outcome of international expansion. Also the country of origin with its particular institutional environment may affect the opportunities of, and targets for, expansion.

Suggested Citation

  • Peiker Wolfdietrich & Pflanz Kai & Kujath Hans Joachim & Kulke Elmar, 2012. "The heterogeneity of internationalisation in knowledge intensive business services," ZFW – Advances in Economic Geography, De Gruyter, vol. 56(1-2), pages 209-225, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:bpj:zfwige:v:56:y:2012:i:1-2:p:209-225:n:15
    DOI: 10.1515/zfw.2012.0015
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    References listed on IDEAS

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