The structure of knowledge exchange network in R&D teams

Abstract

Abstract: Based on the empirical research on the knowledge exchange activities in three product R&D teams within a company belonging to China Aviation Group, the informality and the preference for partner selection in knowledge exchange activities of R&D teams are analyzed from the perspective of social relationship. Moreover, the preferences for partner selection are summarized into four categories with relevant research. From the structural analysis on research network and the R&D exchange network of Imperial Chemical Industries, UK, the small-world characteristics of knowledge exchange network as well as the difference in communication behavior between foreign and domestic R&D members are found. Research results could provide a theoretical and practical basis for applying small-world theory to the study of knowledge exchange. It might give references for the study on the knowledge exchange micro-process in R&D teams as well as knowledge management practice in enterprises.

Key words: R&D team, knowledge exchange, small-world network, social network analysis

CLC Number:

F062.5

Lin Min, Li Nan, Wu Guisheng. The structure of knowledge exchange network in R&D teams[J]. Science Research Management, 2012, 33(9): 63-70.

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