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Managing Knowledge Workers in Global Value Chains

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  • Brown, Clair
  • Linden, Greg

Abstract

Global value chains span national and organizational boundaries in a growing number of industries. Knowledge creation and exchange within these diffuse networks is more complex than in the centralized R&D process of the past. This research, based on extensive fieldwork with engineers and managers in multinational headquarters and subsidiaries in a number of high-tech industries, analyzes alternative modes of managing knowledge workers in this global setting. Strategic human resource management (SHRM), of which formal HR policies are but a small part, is necessary to structure formal and informal network activities, both within and beyond the firm. We compare two archetypal high-performance SHRM systems and describe how they have evolved in practice. We analyze SHRM for global knowledge flows with offshore subsidiaries, value chain partners, allies, acquisitions, and corporate ventures. We also look at knowledge flows in informal personal networks and via the global circulation of knowledge workers. Finally we review lessons learned about SHRM practices to create and manage knowledge workers in global value chains.

Suggested Citation

  • Brown, Clair & Linden, Greg, 2010. "Managing Knowledge Workers in Global Value Chains," Institute for Research on Labor and Employment, Working Paper Series qt1h3013gn, Institute of Industrial Relations, UC Berkeley.
    • Handle: RePEc:cdl:indrel:qt1h3013gn
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Stefan Bender & Julia Lane & Kathryn Shaw & Fredrik Andersson & Till von Wachter, 2008. "The Analysis of Firms and Employees: Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches," NBER Books, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc, number bend08-1.
    2. Stefan Bender & Julia Lane & Kathryn Shaw & Fredrik Andersson & Till von Wachter, 2008. "Introduction to "The Analysis of Firms and Employees: Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches"," NBER Chapters, in: The Analysis of Firms and Employees: Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches, pages 1-16, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    3. Bender, Stefan & Lane, Julia & Shaw, Kathryn L. & Andersson, Fredrik & von Wachter, Till (ed.), 2008. "The Analysis of Firms and Employees," National Bureau of Economic Research Books, University of Chicago Press, number 9780226042879, August.
    4. Greg Linden & Deepak Somaya, 2003. "System-on-a-chip integration in the semiconductor industry: industry structure and firm strategies," Industrial and Corporate Change, Oxford University Press and the Associazione ICC, vol. 12(3), pages 545-576, June.
    5. David Mayer & Martin Kenney, 2004. "Economic Action Does Not Take Place in a Vacuum: Understanding Cisco's Acquisition and Development Strategy," Industry and Innovation, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 11(4), pages 299-325.
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