Spatial development of technological knowledge and the evolution of international business activity across technological paradigms
通过历史分析，研究了国际企业中技术知识空间结构如何随技术范式（机械、机电、数字）演变，提出了由技术、全球制度和地方制度三要素构成的分析框架，并用一家18世纪创立的企业案例加以说明。
How has the spatial structure of the development of technological knowledge in international business (IB) shifted over time, moving between paradigms for IB and society? To answer this research question, we use the method of historical analysis and attempt to synthesize literature streams on international business history and technological paradigms to trace this evolution. Drawing insights from this synthesis and building on evolutionary theoretical approaches in IB, we argue that three elements - (i) technological (T), (ii) global institutional (G), and (iii) local institutional (L) – are key to understanding the spatial development of technological knowledge in IB, as these elements enable, expedite, or constrain technological and organizational change in MNEs within a paradigm and during periods of paradigmatic shifts. We conclude with a case illustration of a firm founded in the 1700s to assess its responses to (and actions that may have prompted) the shifts in the T, G, and L elements across the three technological paradigms – mechanical (1780–1880), electromechanical (1880–1980), and digital (1980-present). • Examines how geographical patterns of technological knowledge development have evolved in MNEs historically. • This is critical for understanding the evolution of international business activity across technological paradigms. • Proposes a conceptual framework comprising technological (T), global (G), and local institutional (L) elements. • The T-G-L framework helps us understand the metamorphosis of an MNE within and across technological paradigms. • Illustrates how the framework can be used to examine and understand the drivers of corporate longevity (or lack thereof).