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Method and Psychological Effects on Learning Behaviors and Knowledge Creation in Quality Improvement Projects

Author

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  • Adrian S. Choo

    (Lally School of Management and Technology, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 Eighth Street, Troy, New York 12180)

  • Kevin W. Linderman

    (Operations and Management Science Department, Carlson School of Management, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455)

  • Roger G. Schroeder

    (Operations and Management Science Department, Carlson School of Management, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455)

Abstract

This study investigates two mechanisms of knowledge creation--one that is method driven and the other that is psychologically driven. Results show that the two mechanisms have different effects on the learning behaviors and knowledge created in Six Sigma projects. The method mechanism directly influences learning behaviors, while the psychological mechanism directly affects knowledge creation. The effects of both mechanisms on knowledge creation are complementary, yet independent. Findings suggest that the value of adhering to a method may lie in modifying the learning behaviors that subsequently create knowledge. When a firm adopts a quality program such as Six Sigma, the method and the degree of its adherence can shape how the firm innovates and creates knowledge.

Suggested Citation

  • Adrian S. Choo & Kevin W. Linderman & Roger G. Schroeder, 2007. "Method and Psychological Effects on Learning Behaviors and Knowledge Creation in Quality Improvement Projects," Management Science, INFORMS, vol. 53(3), pages 437-450, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:inm:ormnsc:v:53:y:2007:i:3:p:437-450
    DOI: 10.1287/mnsc.1060.0635
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    15. Naor, Michael & Jones, Janine Sanders & Bernardes, Ednilson S. & Goldstein, Susan Meyer & Schroeder, Roger, 2014. "The culture-effectiveness link in a manufacturing context: A resource-based perspective," Journal of World Business, Elsevier, vol. 49(3), pages 321-331.
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    19. Maha Mohammed Yusr Author_Email: al_yusr99@yahoo.com & Abdul Rahim Othman & Sany Sanuri Mohd Mokhtar, 2011. "Innovation And Six Sigma Foundation From The Perspective Of The Absorptive Capacity Theory," International Conference on Management (ICM 2011) Proceeding 2011-88-340, Conference Master Resources.
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    22. Yang, Yefei & Lee, Peter K.C. & Cheng, T.C. Edwin, 2017. "Leveraging selected operational improvement practices to achieve both efficiency and creativity: A multi-level study in frontline service operations," International Journal of Production Economics, Elsevier, vol. 191(C), pages 298-310.
    23. L. M. Daphne Yiu & Hugo K. S. Lam & Andy C. L. Yeung & T. C. E. Cheng, 2020. "Enhancing the Financial Returns of R&D Investments through Operations Management," Production and Operations Management, Production and Operations Management Society, vol. 29(7), pages 1658-1678, July.
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