The temporal effects of relative and firm‐level absorptive capacity on interorganizational learning
研究利用专利引用数据，发现企业吸收能力对联盟学习的影响随时间呈倒U型：技术相似性在初期作用有限但后期显著，技术多样性初期促进学习但效果递减，研发强度初期抑制但后期促进学习。
Abstract We examine how determinants of absorptive capacity influence learning in alliances over time. Using longitudinal patent cross‐citation data, we find an inverted U‐shaped pattern over time that is influenced by firm‐level and relational factors. Technological similarity only modestly increases learning in the initial stages of a relationship, but moderate levels substantially increase knowledge flows later in the alliance. High technological diversity is related to higher initial learning rates, but the effects diminish over time. Somewhat surprisingly, research and development intensity is negatively related to initial learning rates but has a considerable positive effect later in the relationship. We suggest that initial learning rates in alliances may be constrained by the capacity to absorb knowledge, while later‐stage outcomes are constrained by exploitation capacity. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.