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International innovation and strategic initiatives: A research agenda

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  • Keupp, Marcus M.
  • Gassmann, Oliver

Abstract

Despite the argument that leveraging the expertise of foreign subsidiaries to the global firm benefits the whole firm's competitive advantage, in the case of international innovation, such leveraging rarely takes place. We investigate this paradox, applying research on strategic initiatives to the context of international R&D. Developing a conceptual model on the basis of communication psychology, we analyse how the innovative expertise of R&D subsidiaries may be leveraged to benefit the global firm. Specifically, we determine six elements whose greater exploration can lead to a deeper understanding of how the innovation expertise of a foreign R&D subsidiary may be leveraged.

Suggested Citation

  • Keupp, Marcus M. & Gassmann, Oliver, 2009. "International innovation and strategic initiatives: A research agenda," Research in International Business and Finance, Elsevier, vol. 23(2), pages 193-205, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:riibaf:v:23:y:2009:i:2:p:193-205
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    3. Sidney Costa & Felipe Mendes Borini, 2017. "Global Innovation in Foreign Subsidiaries: The Impact of Entrepreneurial Orientation and Corporate Networks," Brazilian Business Review, Fucape Business School, vol. 14(4), pages 417-434, July.
    4. Schmid, Stefan & Dzedek, Lars R. & Lehrer, Mark, 2014. "From Rocking the Boat to Wagging the Dog: A Literature Review of Subsidiary Initiative Research and Integrative Framework," Journal of International Management, Elsevier, vol. 20(2), pages 201-218.
    5. Doyle, Eleanor & O’Connor, Fergal, 2013. "Innovation capacities in advanced economies: Relative performance of small open economies," Research in International Business and Finance, Elsevier, vol. 27(1), pages 106-123.

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