Knowledge sourcing, knowledge bases, and the spatial organisation of car design

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2014

Authors

van Tuijl E. (Author) Other; Carvalho L. (Author) FLUP

Journal

Title: Environment and Planning A

Vol. 46

Pages: 1966-1982

ISSN: 0308-518X

Publisher: SAGE

Indexing

Scopus - 18 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00W-529

DOI: 10.1068/a46282

Abstract (EN): This paper analyses the geographical implications of having different types of knowledge bases-synthetic and symbolic-involved in one single but complex innovation process: car design. To do so, we investigated three contrasting car design strategies (Audi, Renault, and SAIC-GM) with the aim of exploring empirical regularities and the reasons underlying the links between knowledge bases, knowledge sourcing mechanisms, and resulting spatial configurations. Evidence suggests that when the synthetic knowledge base is dominant, formal collaboration and mobility are prime knowledge sourcing mechanisms. Moreover, knowledge creation and exchange is likely to occur between actors permanently located within the same region or through the temporary colocation of globally spread innovation partners. On the other hand, when symbolic knowledge is dominant, mobility, monitoring, and buzz turn to be the most relevant sourcing mechanisms, and knowledge creation and exchange are likely to occur within a more strictly local dimension (eg, in cities), through temporary colocation configurations (eg, presence in fairs and via temporary staff exchange), and by global scanning of competitors and trends. © 2014 Pion and its Licensors.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 16