Browsing Working Papers (SMG) by Title
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Foss, Nicolai J. (København, 2005)[More information][Less information]
Abstract: An attempt is made to characterize a "knowledge governance approach" as a distinctive, emerging field that cuts across the fields of knowledge management, organisation studies, strategy and human resource management. Knowledge governance is taken up with how the deployment of administrative apparatus influences knowledge processes, such as sharing, retaining and creating knowledge. It insists on clear behavioural foundations, adopts an economizing perspective and examines efficient alignment between knowledge transactions with diverse characteristics and governance structures and mechanisms with diverse capabilities of handling these transactions. Various open research issues that a knowledge governance approach may illuminate are sketched. Although knowledge governance draws clear inspiration from organizational economics and "rational" organization theory, it recognizes that knowledge represents various challenges to more "closed" social science disciplines, notably economics. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10398/7446 Files in this item: 1
smg wp 2005-001.pdf (386.9Kb) -
The Center for Strategic Management and GlobalizationFoss, Nicolai J. (København, 2007)[More information][Less information]
Abstract: This paper tells the story of the emergence of distinct research around the theory of the firm at Copenhagen Business School within the last two decades, focussing on elements of continuity in the thinking of key CBS persons in the period. It discusses the current research agenda of the Center for Strategic Management and Globalization, a research agenda that may be described as multi-level research in international strategy, based on the economic theory of the firm and strategic management theory, and with a strong emphasis on micro-foundations and knowledge governance. The paper relates the narrative to organizational learning theory. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10398/7435 Files in this item: 1
cbs forskningsindberetning smg 112.pdf (195.6Kb) -
Dos, Yves; Foss, Nicolai J.; Santos, José (København, 2008)[More information][Less information]
Abstract: The role of knowledge, organizational learning, and innovation as levers of competitive advantage is now a commonly acknowledged insight in research in international management. However, while the agglomeration of insights of described as the "knowledge-based view” is a promising theoretical lens, insights are not organized into a unifying framework and there are significant holes in the understanding of how knowledge may be turned into a source of competitive advantage for MNCs. In order to advance the knowledge-based theory of the MNC, we develop the notion of the MNC as a global knowledge system linking local knowledge structures and combining local knowledge elements that are complementary to confer strategic advantage, and relate this to the theory of complex systems deriving from the work of Herbert Simon. These ideas are used to frame the changing environments, strategic intents, and learning stances that characterize MNCs, and to derive a set of research challenges for MNC research. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10398/7442 Files in this item: 1
smg wp 2008-20.pdf (275.1Kb) -
Quantifying MNC Geographic ScopeGeisler Asmussen, Christian (København, 2006)[More information][Less information]
Abstract: This paper proposes a multidimensional index of regional and global orientation which can be used in confirmatory studies with econometric methodologies. Unlike extant measures, the index is objectively scaled and controls for home country orientation and market size differences. The index is shown to be consistent with models of internationalization that incorporate different assumptions about strategic choice and global competition. Preliminary results show that large multinationals follow home region oriented internationalization paths, although much of the regional effect reported by previous studies in fact reflects strong home country biases. Keywords: globalization; regional integration; global strategy; regional strategy; local strategy; triad; liability of foreignness URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10398/7433 Files in this item: 1
smg wp 2006-14 - registrering.pdf (327.5Kb) -
A Typology and Propositions for Management Innovation ResearchHarder, Mie (Frederiksberg, 2011)[More information][Less information]
Abstract: Management innovation is the implementation of a new management practice, process, technique or structure that significantly alters the way the work of management is performed. This paper presents a typology categorizing management innovation along two dimensions; radicalness and complexity. Then, the paper introduces the concept of management innovation capabilities which refers to the ability of a firm to purposefully create, extend and modify its managerial resource base to address rapidly changing environments. Drawing upon behavioral theory of the firm and the dynamic capabilities framework, the paper proposes a model of the foundations of management innovation. Propositions and implications for future research are discussed. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10398/8245 Files in this item: 1
SMG_WP_2_2011.pdf (471.6Kb) -
[More information][Less information]
Abstract: Methodological individualism is the doctrine that economic or social phenomena are ultimately grounded in individual knowing and choice. Recently numerous collective concepts have been introduced into our thinking about the firm - absorptive capacity, communities of practice, dynamic capabilities, social capital, organizational routines, and so on. As far as we can tell these are neither theoretically nor empirically well grounded. In this talk I consider what might be meant by the statement that 'only individuals can know'. I contrast notions of knowing as having and holding data, or a frame of meaning, or a skilled practice. I conclude that all manner of social entities can know in all respects save that of creating the knwledge that is then known. Jel classification: D8, M10, M19 URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10398/7418 Files in this item: 1
cbs forskningsindberetning smg 37.pdf (1.630Mb) -
A knowledge governance perspectiveFoss, Kirsten; Foss, Nicolai J. (København, 2008)[More information][Less information]
Abstract: A critical knowledge governance problem concerns the consequences for the use of the authority if the knowledge that is essential in a work setting is partially unknown to the person who is to exercise authority. Is it possible to rationally direct work and activities and efficiently utilize knowledge under such conditions? Recently, many scholars have given negative answers to this question, arguing that authority relations are becoming strained by the increasingly distributed nature of knowledge in and between firms. We analyze this argument on the basis of definitions of "authority” and "distributed knowledge.” This allows us to show that --- while intuitively appealing --- the argument that authority cannot be an efficient coordination mechanism in the presence of distributed knowledge is at best problematic. The argument is based on the flawed inference that because the holder of authority is ignorant about some of the knowledge held by employees, he cannot rationally direct them. However, it is correct that the quality of centralized direction (planning, authority) may be compromised by distributed knowledge, leading to choices of other governance mechanisms and structures. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10398/7425 Files in this item: 1
smg wp 2008-01.pdf (447.9Kb) -
A theoretical perspectivePetersen, Bent; Welch, Lawrence S.; Benito, Gabriel R.G. (København, 2008)[More information][Less information]
Abstract: Internalisation theory informs us about why and when multinational enterprises (MNEs) internalise foreign operations, but has less to say about how the internalisation should be prepared and exercised when foreign market operations initially are carried out by local, outside agents. Drawing on insights from managerially-oriented literature, this paper explores the role of management in situations where the market transaction costs of using outside agents are negligible at market entry, but grow over time. A key question pertaining to this situation is: what management instruments may ensure persistent concurrence between changing pressure for internalisation in a foreign market and the effectuated internalisation of an MNE in that market? Management instruments and strategies that potentially support ‘staged internalisation’ include appropriation of the local outside agent’s financial assets (including equity) as well as non-financial assets in relation to user rights, customer relations, and value added activities. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10398/7454 Files in this item: 1
smg wp 2008-07.pdf (436.9Kb) -
Hotho, Jasper J. (, 2009)[More information][Less information]
Abstract: Three varieties of institutionalism currently dominate International Business studies: new institutional economics, new organizational institutionalism, and comparative historical institutionalism. Yet currently applied measures of institutional country distance predominantly build on the thought of the first two strands of institutionalism. This paper sets out to address this underrepresentation of comparative historical institutional thought in currently available measures of institutional distance. Building on Whitley’s business systems framework, a measure of institutional distance is developed and validated which captures intrinsic, substantive institutional differences in economic organization, rather than differences in institutional effectiveness. The results of the two-stage cluster analysis used to validate the selected indicators closely approximate the business systems typology, which is both indicative of the validity of this measure and of the distinctiveness of the business system types that make up the business system framework. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10398/7946 Files in this item: 1
SMG WP 2009-07.pdf (975.7Kb) -
A Goal-Framing Perspective on the Drivers of Value CreationFoss, Nicolai J.; Lindenberg, Siegwart (Frederiksberg, 2013)[More information][Less information]
Abstract: Scholars increasingly seek to proffer microfoundations for macro management theory, notably strategic management theory. These microfoundations naturally revolve around human resources. We argue that proper microfoundations for strategic management theory must recognize that the management of motivation is first and foremost a matter of the management of cognitions of organizational members, an insight that we found in goal-framing theory, an emerging perspective based on cognitive science, behavioral economics, and social psychology. Building on this insight, we argue that a key reason why strategic goals matter to firm performance──that is, firm-level value creation and value capture and sustained competitive heterogeneity──is that such goals influence value creation rooted in employee motivations. Unfolding this idea allows us to generate new insight in the relations between value creation, strategic leadership and strategic goals. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10398/8668 Files in this item: 1
SMGWP2013_5.pdf (711.6Kb) -
Individuals, Processes, and SturctureFelin, Teppo; Foss, Nicolai J.; Heimeriks, Koen H. (Frederiksberg, 2012)[More information][Less information]
Abstract: We discuss the microfoundations of routines and capabilities, including why a microfoundations view is needed and how it may inform work on organizational and competitive heterogeneity. Building on extant research, we identify three primary categories of micro-level components underlying routines and capabilities: individuals, social processes, and structure and design. We discuss how these components, and their interactions, may affect routines and capabilities. In doing so, we outline a research agenda for advancing the field’s understanding of the microfoundations of routines and capabilities. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10398/8401 Files in this item: 1
Teppo_Felin_SMG_WP_423.pdf (283.4Kb) -
Controlling Intervention Hazards in the Network MNCFoss, Kirsten; Foss, Nicolai J.; Nell, Phillip C. (Frederiksberg, 2011)[More information][Less information]
Abstract: The MNC literature treats the (parent) HQ as entirely benevolent with respect to their perceived and actual intentions when they intervene at lower levels of the MNC. However, HQ may intervene in subsidiaries in ways that demotivate subsidiary employees and managers (and therefore harm value-creation). This may happen even if such intervention is benevolent in its intentions. We argue that the movement away from more traditional hierarchical forms of the MNC and towards network MNCs placed in more dynamic environments gives rise to more occasions for potentially harmful intervention by HQ. Network MNCs should therefore be particularly careful to anticipate and take precautions against “intervention hazards.” Following earlier research, we point to the role of normative integration and procedural justice, but argue that they also serve to control harmful HQ intervention (and not just subsidiary opportunism). URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10398/8380 Files in this item: 1
Kirsten Foss_SMG WP13_2011.pdf (634.1Kb) -
Hansen, Michael W.; Pedersen, Torben; Petersen, Bent (København, 2007)[More information][Less information]
Abstract: The paper addresses the question of which implications MNC strategies have to FDI linkage effects in developing countries. Two contrasting MNC strategies reflecting an integration-responsiveness dichotomy are scrutinized as to their job effects on local linkage partners in developing countries. It is hypothesized that compared to investments undertaken by MNCs following strategies of global integration, investments of MNCs pursuing local responsiveness create more jobs but imply less job upgrading in developing countries. The hypotheses are tested on a sample of Danish MNCs with extensive investments in developing countries. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10398/7468 Files in this item: 1
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Benito, Gabriel R. G.; Petersen, Bent; Welch, Lawrence S. (Frederiksberg, 2010)[More information][Less information]
Abstract: An enduring characteristic of extant literature on foreign operation modes is its discrete choice approach, where companies are assumed to choose one among a small number of distinctive alternatives. In this paper we use detailed information about the operations of six Norwegian companies in three key markets (China, UK and USA) as the basis for an exploration of the extent to which, and how and why, companies combine clearly different foreign operation modes. We examine their use of foreign operation mode combinations within given value activities as well as within given countries. The study reveals that companies tend to combine modes of operation; thereby producing unique foreign operation mode “packages” for given activities and/or countries, and that the packages are liable to be modified over time – providing a potentially important optional path for international expansion. Our data show considerable variation across cases; ranging from extensive use of mode combinations to a singular focus on a specific mode of operation. The study contributes to a refinement of our understanding of the path of internationalisation, and throws up a number of awkward theoretical questions about the process. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10398/8219 Files in this item: 1
Benito_Petersen_Welch_SMG_WP_9_2010.pdf (237.6Kb) -
Foss, Nicolai J.; Stieglitz, Nils (Frederiksberg, 2010)[More information][Less information]
Abstract: We survey the resource-based view in strategic management, focusing on its roots in economics. We organize our discussion in terms of the Gavetti and Levinthal distinction between a “high church” and a “low church” resource-based view, and argue that these hitherto rather separate streams are increasingly overlapping. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10398/8172 Files in this item: 1
CBS Forskningsindberetning SMG 261.pdf (200.4Kb) -
Capital Structure ContingenciesJuul Andersen, Torben (København, 2008)[More information][Less information]
Abstract: Multinational enterprise provides access to a diverse resource base that may support options related business initiatives and operational flexibilities with a potential to improve performance and risk management capabilities. Hence, multinationality should be associated with strategic responsiveness as real option structures allow the corporation to exploit new initiatives and pursue alternative actions. This, in turn should improve economic performance and risk management capabilities as corporate activities are adapted and new initiatives introduced in response to changing global conditions. The analyses of a cross-sectional sample comprising 1357 multinational firms during 1996-2000 partially support the proposed performance and risk management effects but also raise issues for further study. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10398/7457 Files in this item: 1
smg wp 2008-08.pdf (326.5Kb) -
Juul Andersen, Torben (København, 2008)[More information][Less information]
Abstract: Studies of multinational performance have moved from linear, to quadratic and to cubic relationships but despite this seeming increase in sophistication, the empirical evidence has remained contradictory. The hypothesized performance relationships of multinationality have typically been driven by assumed trade-offs between underlying cost/benefit functions. However, this paper argues that cost/benefit trade-offs associated with international expansion are shaped by industry specific conditions that systematically confound the performance outcomes of multinationality. Whereas prior studies often have been confined to a focus on manufacturing and smaller cross-sectional samples, this study analyses the multinational performance outcomes across a comprehensive industry-wide dataset during 1996-2000. The analyses show positive multinational performance relationships in manufacturing and knowledge-based service industries whereas capital-based service industries have negative performance relationships. These results support the proposed heterogeneity in multinational performance effects across industry contexts. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10398/7467 Files in this item: 1
smg wp 2008-15.pdf (324.0Kb) -
Foss, Nicolai J.; Klein, Peter G. (København, 2008)[More information][Less information]
Abstract: Entrepreneurship and the theory of the firm are two of the fastest-growing fields in eco-nomics and management. The two fields developed largely in isolation and are only now beginning to be brought together. We argue that each field has much to learn from the other and that combining them yields a better theory of the firm and a fuller understand-ing of the nature and effects of entrepreneurship in the economy. Specifically, the Knightian concept of entrepreneurship as judgment, combined with the Austrian ap-proach to capital heterogeneity, leads to a number of unconventional insights about the nature, boundaries, and internal organization of the firm. The judgment perspective also shifts attention from the discovery or recognition of entrepreneurial opportunities to the exploitation of those opportunities through the acquisition, combination, and recombina-tion of resources, adding to our understanding of the causes and consequences of entre-preneurship. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10398/7461 Files in this item: 1
smg wp 2008-04.pdf (328.7Kb) -
Towards a More Nuanced Perspective on Motivation in OrganizationsReinholt, Mia (København, 2006)[More information][Less information]
Abstract: The organizational science literature on motivation has for long been polarized into two main positions; the organizational economic position focusing on extrinsic motivation and the organizational behavior position emphasizing intrinsic motivation. With the rise of the knowledge economy and the increasing levels of complexities it entails, such polarization is not fruitful in the attempt to explain motivation of organizational members. This paper claims that a more nuanced perspective on motivation, acknowledging the co-existence of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, the possible interaction between the two as well as different types of motivations filling in the gap between the two polar types, is urgently needed in the organizational science literature. By drawing on the research on intrinsic and extrinsic motivation conducted in social psychology and combining this with contributions from organizational science, economics, and sociology, this paper attempts to develop an emergent understanding of motivation, which is more facetted than the one dominating organizational science currently. Based on these discussions, eleven implications for future research on motivation in organizations are proposed. Keywords: Work motivation, intrinsic motivation, extrinsic motivation, motivation systems, and the knowledge economy JEL Codes: M12, M52, M54 URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10398/7456 Files in this item: 1
smg 2006-49.pdf (301.2Kb) -
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Abstract: While the extant literature on offshore outsourcing deals with this operation mode in isolation, and typically with a focus on cost effects, we address the broader question of how companies choose and use outsourcing as part of foreign operation mode development and as a contributor to internationalization. We use a case study of the Danish company SimCorp and the development of its operations in Kiev, Ukraine, to show how learning in various forms, control concerns, and relations with foreign partners may interact and build momentum for mode change. SimCorp’s experience demonstrates that outsourcing can be used proactively to promote expanded international operations. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10398/8360 Files in this item: 1
SMG WP 9_2011_Ny udg_28nov2011.pdf (144.2Kb)