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Technology sourcing in multinational enterprises and the roles of subsidiaries: An empirical investigation

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  • Manolopoulos, Dimitris
  • Papanastassiou, Marina
  • Pearce, Robert

Abstract

This paper views the Multinational Enterprise (MNE) as a differentiated learning network with foreign subunits playing a critical role in managing knowledge. Drawing on a sample of 92 subsidiaries operating in Greece, it empirically tests the relationship between sources of technology acquired and/or generated (internally or externally) and relates them to differently strategically motivated subsidiaries. Our findings record the existence of a multifaceted network of technology generation and transmission, which is differentiated among the different types of subsidiaries. In particular, results confirm the fact that larger and innovative subsidiaries have granted access to wider sources of technology. Moreover, evidence indicates that product mandates, as well as subsidiaries of a more efficiency-seeking nature, are likely to be better embedded in the local environment.

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  • Manolopoulos, Dimitris & Papanastassiou, Marina & Pearce, Robert, 2005. "Technology sourcing in multinational enterprises and the roles of subsidiaries: An empirical investigation," International Business Review, Elsevier, vol. 14(3), pages 249-267, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:iburev:v:14:y:2005:i:3:p:249-267
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    8. Dimitris Manolopoulos & Marina Papanastassiou & Robert Pearce, 2007. "Knowledge-related competitiveness and the roles of multinationals’ R&D in a peripheral European economy: Survey analysis of Greece," Management International Review, Springer, vol. 47(5), pages 661-682, September.
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    11. Dzikowska Marlena & Gorynia Marian, 2020. "Long-term evolution of the subsidiary’s role: a qualitative perspective on a subsidiary located in Poland," International Journal of Management and Economics, Warsaw School of Economics, Collegium of World Economy, vol. 56(1), pages 79-95, March.
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    14. Zorska, Anna, 2016. "Polityka państwa wobec korporacji transnarodowych i przenoszenie ich prac B+R," Studia z Polityki Publicznej / Public Policy Studies, Warsaw School of Economics, vol. 3(3), pages 1-30, April.
    15. Anna Zorska, 2010. "Globalization Of Innovation Activity By Transnational Corporations: And Its Importance In The Present Economic Crisis," Perspectives of Innovation in Economics and Business (PIEB), Prague Development Center, vol. 4(1), pages 11-14, February.
    16. Zhang, Feng & Jiang, Guohua & Cantwell, John A., 2019. "Geographically Dispersed Technological Capability Building and MNC Innovative Performance: The Role of Intra-firm Flows of Newly Absorbed Knowledge," Journal of International Management, Elsevier, vol. 25(3), pages 1-1.
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