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Knowledge Virtualization and Local Connectedness among Smart High-tech Companies

Author

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  • Marina van Geenhuizen

    (Delft University of Technology, Delft)

  • Peter Nijkamp

    (VU University Amsterdam)

Abstract

This discussion paper led to an article in Technological Forecasting and Social Change (2012). Volume 79, issue 7, pages 1179-1191. Smart high-tech companies are characterized by knowledge intensity and open innovation. Even when these companies emerge in spatial clusters or dense urban places, they may utilize knowledge networks on a global scale. However, there is not much insight into the factors that shape knowledge networks, the role of virtualization herein and the impact of on global knowledge sourcing on local connectedness. This paper seeks to fill these gaps in understanding, by drawing on a selected sample of young high-technology companies in the Netherlands and application of rough set analysis to identify homogeneous categories of companies in the highly differentiated segment of young high-tech companies. The outcomes suggest that employing mainly local and employing mainly global knowledge networks coexist in city-regions, and that only part of the globalized companies are losing local connectedness, particularly those involved in co-creation with global customers and those acting as learning partners of multinational corporations ('reverse' knowledge transfer). Factors counteracting a weakening of local connectedness are specific local knowledge relationships and the strategy of developing local/regional customer markets.

Suggested Citation

  • Marina van Geenhuizen & Peter Nijkamp, 2011. "Knowledge Virtualization and Local Connectedness among Smart High-tech Companies," Tinbergen Institute Discussion Papers 11-119/3, Tinbergen Institute.
    • Handle: RePEc:tin:wpaper:20110119
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    high-technology companies; open innovation; knowledge networks; strategic focus; dynamic capabilities; virtualization; local connectedness; rough set analysis;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • O14 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Industrialization; Manufacturing and Service Industries; Choice of Technology
    • D21 - Microeconomics - - Production and Organizations - - - Firm Behavior: Theory

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