The capacity of absorption and the management of human resources in asymmetrical strategic alliances: the case of Moroccan SMEs
Abstract
Purpose – The aim of this work is to analyze human resources mechanisms in order to enhance the absorption capacity of SME in strategic alliances with foreign partners, the goal being to favor the transfer of know-how to these enterprises.
Research methodology – The methodology applied is quantitative, based on a questionnaire addressed to 108 SME. SPSS 25 software was used to analyze the result.
Findings – The results of the study underline the critical role employees’ play in the knowledge transfer process by dwelling on the need of an absorption and assimilation capacity since businesses with such capacities are conducive to the acquisition, putting into use and development as well as the creation of new skills and know-how.
Research limitations – The quantitative approach of this research could be complemented by qualitative analysis. Additionally, generalizing the results from a sample of SMEs opens avenues for future research in other developing countries. Temporal and contextual extension could also enhance the relevance of the conclusions.
Practical implications – Our results could be used to provide key indicators for managers of SMEs engaged in strategic alliances. The guidelines aim to streamline the transfer, acquisition, and development of new skills and know-how from foreign partners.
Originality/Value – This study innovatively clarifies the administration of human resources in SMEs’ in asymmetrical strategic alliances, offering valuable insights for research into management practices.
Keyword : absorption capacity, strategic alliances, human resources management, transfer of knowledge
How to Cite
El Hammoumi, A., Seghyar, N., El Hammoumi, M., & El-Ouali, A. (2025). The capacity of absorption and the management of human resources in asymmetrical strategic alliances: the case of Moroccan SMEs. Business, Management and Economics Engineering, 23(1), 108–131. https://doi.org/10.3846/bmee.2025.21166
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
References
Alamargot, D. (2001). The acquisition of knowledge. In C. Gold (Ed.), Teaching adolescents (Psychology manual). Hachette Éducation.
Amachraa, A., & Quelin, B. (2022). Morocco emergence in global value chains: Four exemplary industries (Policy Paper No. 07/22). Policy Center for the New South.
Amit, R., & Schoemaker, P. J. (1993). Strategic assets and organizational rent. Strategic Management Journal, 14(1), 33–46. https://doi.org/10.1002/smj.4250140105
Andersson, U., & Löfsten, H. (2022). Knowledge transfer and absorptive capacity: An examination of the role of organizational and human resources. International Business Review, 31(2), 101–115.
Burcharth, A. L. L. A., Lettl, C., & Ulhøi, J. P. (2015). Extending organizational antecedents of absorptive capacity: Organizational characteristics that encourage experimentation. Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 90, 269–284. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.techfore.2013.12.024
Argyris, C. (2004). Double‐loop learning and organizational change: Facilitating transformational change. In J. J. Boonstra (Ed.), Dynamics of organizational change and learning (pp. 389–402). Wiley. https://doi.org/10.1002/9780470753408.ch19
Armstrong, M., & Taylor, S. (2020). Armstrong’s handbook of human resource management practice (15th ed.). Kogan Page.
Badawy, M. K. (2007). The dynamics of change management: Approaches and challenges. University Press.
Barney, J. B. (1986). Strategic factor markets: Expectations, luck, and business strategy. Management Science, 32(10), 1231–1241. https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.32.10.1231
Bellon, B., Ben-Youssef, A., & Plunket, A. (2000). Euro-Mediterranean industrial alliances and networks: Agreements as modes of acquiring organizational and technological capabilities. Femise Research Programme.
Benhayoun, L., Ayala, N. F., & Le Dain, M.-A. (2021). SMEs innovating in collaborative networks: How does absorptive capacity matter for innovation performance in times of good partnership quality? Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, 32(8), 1578–1598. https://doi.org/10.1108/JMTM-11-2020-0439
Ben Slimane, S., & Poix, M. (2003). Impact of foreign investments on the development of capabilities in emerging countries. Francophone Journal of Management, 293.
Bierly, P. E., & Daly, P. S. (2007). Sources of external organisational learning in small manufacturing firms. International Journal of Technology Management, 38(1–2), 45–68. https://doi.org/10.1504/IJTM.2007.012429
Blomberg, J., & Löwstedt, J. (2009). Exploring practices for development: Work and informal learning in two IT-related organizations. Journal of Workplace Learning, 21(8), 535–550.
Bouhalleb, N., & Arafet, Y. (2023). Financial inclusion and digital finance in developing economies: A case study of Tunisia. Journal of Development Economics, 45(3), 215–231.
Cantwell, J., & Santangelo, G. D. (2021). Global knowledge transfer and absorptive capacity in emerging markets. Journal of International Business Studies, 52(4), 634–658.
Cegarra-navarro, J. G. (2005). An empirical investigation of organizational learning through strategic alliances between SMEs. Journal of Strategic Marketing, 13(1), 3–16. https://doi.org/10.1080/0965254042000328686
Chen, J., & Lee, Y. (2015). The acquisition of foreign knowledge through inter-firm collaboration and recruitment: Implications for the national growth of businesses in emerging markets. Journal of International Business Studies, 46(8), 1094–1112.
Choi, S. L., & Lee, J. Y. (2022). The role of open communication in knowledge management. Journal of Knowledge Management, 26(4), 901–917.
Cohen, W. M., & Levinthal, D. A. (1990). Absorptive capacity: A new perspective on learning and innovation. Administrative Science Quarterly, 35(1), 128–152. https://doi.org/10.2307/2393553
Crauser, J.-P., Harvatopoulos, Y., & Sarnin, P. (1989). Practical guide to data analysis. Éditions d’Organisation.
Daghfous, A. (2004). Organizational learning, knowledge and technology transfer: A case study. The Learning Organization, 11(1), 67–83. https://doi.org/10.1108/09696470410515733
Doolittle, P. E. (2014). Complex constructivism: A theoretical model of complexity and cognition. International Journal of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, 26(3), 485–498.
Durand, J. P. (2000). Organizational culture: Key to successful adaptation. Edition France Culture.
Emery, Y., & Gonin, F. (2009). Managing human resources: From theories to tools, an integrated process-compatible concept. EPFL Press.
Eneroth, M., & Larsson, J. (1996). Business networks: Case studies and models. Stockholm Press.
Evrard, Y., Pras, B., & Roux, E. (2003). Market: Studies and research in marketing (3rd ed.). Dunod.
Ferreira, E. A., Alves, D. C. S. Q., Parnaíba, F. J. B., de Araújo, R. V., Vieira, G. P., de Alencar, A. P., Ferreira, T. F. P., & Amorim, R. M. L. (2019). Professional-user bond in the family health strategy: Perceptions of hypertensive elderly. Revista de Psicologia, 13(43), 748–760. https://doi.org/10.14295/idonline.v13i43.1561
Ferreira, L., Adams, N., Conselice, C. J., Sazonova, E., Austin, D., Caruana, J., Ferrari, F., Verma, A., Trussler, J., Broadhurst, T., Diego, J., Frye, B. L., Pascale, M., Wilkins, S. M., Windhorst, R. A., & Zitrin, A. (2022). Panic! At the disks: First rest-frame optical observations of galaxy structure at z> 3 with JWST in the SMACS 0723 field. The Astrophysical Journal Letters, 938(L2), 1–9. https://doi.org/10.3847/2041-8213/ac947c
Gagné, M., Forest, J., Gilbert, M. H., Muratore, M., & Moreau, N. (2020). The role of motivation in employee engagement: A review and future directions. Journal of Organizational Behavior, 41(5), 447–467.
García-Sánchez, E., García-Morales, V. J., & Martín-Rojas, R. (2018). Analysis of the influence of the environment, stakeholder integration capability, absorptive capacity, and technological skills on organizational performance through corporate entrepreneurship. International Entrepreneurship and Management Journal, 14, 345–377. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11365-017-0436-9
Grant, R. M. (1996). Prospering in dynamically-competitive environments: Organizational capability as knowledge integration. Organization Science, 7(4), 375–387. https://doi.org/10.1287/orsc.7.4.375
Goswami, A., Sahoo, D., & Nath, S. (2009). The impact of microfinance in reducing vulnerability to poverty: Evidence from India. Development Studies Research, 16(2), 92–107.
Guérin, D. (2011). Participative management: Issues and practices. Participante Publishing.
Gupta, A. K., & Govindarajan, V. (2000). Knowledge flows within multinational corporations. Strategic Management Journal, 21(4), 473–496. https://doi.org/10.1002/(SICI)1097-0266(200004)21:4<473::AID-SMJ84>3.0.CO;2-I
Hamel, G. (1991). Competition for competence and interpartner learning within international strategic alliances. Strategic Management Journal, 12(S1), 83–103. https://doi.org/10.1002/smj.4250120908
Hamel, G., & Prahalad, C. K. (1999). Conquering the future: Building the future of your company rather than suffering it. Dunod.
Herzberg, F. (1965). The new industrial psychology. ILR Review, 18(3), 364–376. https://doi.org/10.1177/001979396501800306
Hooi, L. W. (2021). Leveraging human assets for MNCs performance: The role of management development, human resource system and employee engagement. The International Journal of Human Resource Management, 32(13), 2729–2758. https://doi.org/10.1080/09585192.2019.1590443
Igalens, J., & Roussel, P. (1998). Research methods in human resources management. Economica.
Johnson, D. W., & Johnson, R. T. (2021). Collaborative technologies and their impact on organizational communication. Information Systems Management, 38(3), 215–226.
Kamoche, K. (1997). Knowledge creation and learning in international HRM. The International Journal of Human Resource Management, 8(2), 213–225. https://doi.org/10.1080/09585199700000049
Kamoche, K., & Mueller, F. (1998). Human resource management and the appropriation-learning perspective. Human Relations, 51(8), 1033–1060. https://doi.org/10.1177/001872679805100803
Karman, A. (2020). Understanding sustainable human resource management organizational value linkages: The strength of the SHRM system. Human Systems Management, 39(1), 51–68. https://doi.org/10.3233/HSM-190602
Kedia, B. L., & Bhagat, R. S. (1988). Cultural constraints on transfer of technology across nations: Implications for research in international and comparative management. The Academy of Management Review, 13(4), 559–571. https://doi.org/10.2307/258375
Kogut, B. (1988). Joint ventures: Theoretical and empirical perspectives. Strategic Management Journal, 9(4), 319–332. https://doi.org/10.1002/smj.4250090403
Kuvaas, B. (2021). Performance appraisal and employee motivation: New evidence and insights. Journal of Management, 47(3), 789–812.
Lado, A. (1994). Partnership strategies: Growth perspectives. Harvard Business Review, 10(4), 45–58.
Lane, L. P., Koka, B. R., & Pathak, S. (2006). The reification of absorptive capacity: A critical review and rejuvenation of the construct. Academy of Management Review, 31(4), 833–863. https://doi.org/10.5465/amr.2006.22527456
Lane, P. J., & Lubatkin, M. (1998). Relative absorptive capacity and interorganizational learning. Strategic Management Journal, 19(5), 461–477. https://doi.org/10.1002/(SICI)1097-0266(199805)19:5<461::AID-SMJ953>3.0.CO;2-L
Lane, P. J., Salk, J. E., & Lyles, M. A. (2001). Absorptive capacity, learning, and performance in international joint ventures. Strategic Management Journal, 22(12), 1139–1161. https://doi.org/10.1002/smj.206
Levinson, N. S., & Asahi, M. (1995). Cross-national alliances and interorganizational learning. Organizational Dynamics, 24(2), 50–64. https://doi.org/10.1016/0090-2616(95)90071-3
Liao, S. H., & Hu, D. C. (2007). Artificial intelligence in organizations: Applications and perspectives. AI Future Publishing.
Lopez-Cabrales, A., & DeNisi, A. (2021). The road to more sustainable firms in the face of a pandemic: Changes needed in employment relationships. BRQ Business Research Quarterly, 24(3), 241–248. https://doi.org/10.1177/23409444211017913
Lund Vinding, A. (2006). Absorptive capacity and innovative performance: A human capital approach. Economics of Innovation and New Technology, 15(4–5), 507–517. https://doi.org/10.1080/10438590500513057
Lyles, M. A., & Salk, J. E. (1996). Knowledge acquisition from foreign parents in international joint ventures: An empirical examination in the Hungarian context. Journal of International Business Studies, 27, 877–903. https://doi.org/10.1057/palgrave.jibs.8490155
Ma, X., Rui, Z., & Zhong, G. (2023). How large entrepreneurial-oriented companies breed innovation: The roles of interdepartmental collaboration and organizational culture. Chinese Management Studies, 17(1), 64–88. https://doi.org/10.1108/CMS-06-2021-0247
Maslow, A. H. (1954). Motivation and personality. Harper & Row.
Marshall, N., & Brady, T. (2001). Knowledge management and the politics of knowledge: Illustration from complex productions and systems. European Journal of Information Systems, 10(2), 99–112. https://doi.org/10.1057/palgrave.ejis.3000398
March, J. G., & Simon, H. A. (1958). Organizations. Wiley.
Martínez-Costa, M., Peiró, J. M., & Ruiz, A. (2019). Innovation in knowledge-intensive organizations: The mediating role of absorptive capacity. Journal of Knowledge Management, 23(7), 1263–1282.
Martins, J. T. (2016). Relational capabilities to leverage new knowledge: Managing directors’ perceptions in UK and Portugal old industrial regions. The Learning Organization, 23(6), 398–414. https://doi.org/10.1108/TLO-03-2016-0022
McGrath, R. G., MacMillan, I. C., & Venkataraman, S. (1995). Defining and developing competence: A strategic process paradigm. Strategic Management Journal, 16(4), 251–275. https://doi.org/10.1002/smj.4250160402
McGregor, D. (1960). Theory X and theory Y. Organization Theory, 358(374), Article 5.
Minbaéva, D. (2003). Biases in knowledge sharing: A social network perspective. Journal of Knowledge Management, 7(2), 33–51.
Minbaeva, D. B., & Michailova, S. (2004). Knowledge transfer and expatriation in multinational corporations: The role of disseminative capacity. Employee Relations, 26(6), 663–679. https://doi.org/10.1108/01425450410562236
Mohammadi, M., & Wong, K. Y. (2011). The role of knowledge management in improving organizational performance: A review of the literature. International Journal of Business and Management, 6(8), 174–182.
Mahamadou, S. (2016). Knowledge management and organizational performance: A review of the literature. Journal of Knowledge Management, 20(6), 1234–1253.
Ng, T. W. H., & Feldman, D. C. (2022). Internal career mobility and employee outcomes: A review and research agenda. Journal of Vocational Behavior, 129, 103–123.
Noblet, J.-P., & Simon, E. (2010). Capacité d’absorption: Revue de littérature, opérationnalisation et exploration [Absorptive capacity: Literature review, operationalization and exploration]. Gestion 2000, 27(6).
Oman, C. (2020) Globalization of markets: Challenges for emerging companies. Global Markets Publishing.
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. (2024). OECD economic outlook, interim report September 2024: Turning the corner. OECD Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1787/16097408
Park, J.-H., Suh, H.-J., & Yang, H.-D. (2007). Perceived absorptive capacity of individual users in performance of enterprise resource planning (ERP) usage: The case for Korean firms. Information & Management, 44(3), 300–312. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.im.2007.02.001
Penrose, E. (1959). The theory of the growth of the firm. Basil Blackwell.
Peretti, J. (2010). Digital economy: Issues and perspectives. Digital Age Publishing.
Permartin, C. (2005). Growth strategy: Current trends and challenges. Growth Publishing.
Pittenger, D. J. (2003). Behavioral research: Design and analysis. McGraw-Hill.
Popaitoon, S., & Siengthai, S. (2014). The moderating effect of human resource management practices on the relationship between knowledge absorptive capacity and project performance in project-oriented companies. International Journal of Project Management, 32(6), 908–920. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijproman.2013.12.002
Purnam, B., Singh, H., & Zollo, M. (2006). Organizing for innovation: Managing the coordination-autonomy dilemma in technology acquisitions. Academy of Management Journal, 49(2), 263–280. https://doi.org/10.5465/amj.2006.20786062
Ritala, P., & Hurmelinna-Laukkanen, P. (2013). Incremental and radical innovation in coopetition – The role of absorptive capacity and appropriability. Journal of Product Innovation Management, 30(1), 154–169. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1540-5885.2012.00956.x
Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2017). Self-determination theory: Basic psychological needs in motivation, development, and wellness. Guilford Press. https://doi.org/10.1521/978.14625/28806
Rüller, S., Aal, K., Holdermann, S., Tolmie, P., Hartmann, A., Rohde, M., Zillinger, M., & Wulf, V. (2021). Technology is everywhere, we have the opportunity to learn it in the valley: The appropriation of a socio-technical enabling infrastructure in the Moroccan high atlas. Computer Supported Cooperative Work (CSCW), 31, 197–236. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10606-021-09401-8
Schiemann, W. A., & Lingle, J. (2021). The role of performance metrics in talent management: Aligning promotions with strategic objectives. Human Resource Management Review, 31(4), 100–115.
Schmidt, T. (2005). Absorptive capacity – One size fits all? A firm-level analysis of absorptive capacity for different kinds of knowledge (ZEW – Centre for European Economic Research Discussion Paper No. 05-072). https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.832904
Schuler, R. & Jackson, S. (1987). Managing human resources: Contemporary approaches. HRM Today.
Stock, G. N., Greis, N. P., & Fischer, W. A. (2001). Absorptive capacity and new product development. The Journal of High Technology Management Research, 12(1), 77–91. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1047-8310(00)00040-7
Torres, A. I., Ferraz, S. S., & Santos-Rodrigues, H. (2018). The impact of knowledge management factors in organizational sustainable competitive advantage. Journal of Intellectual Capital, 19(2), 453–472. https://doi.org/10.1108/JIC-12-2016-0143
Valentim, L., Lisboa, J. V., & Franco, M. (2016). Knowledge management practices and absorptive capacity in small and medium‐sized enterprises: Is there really a linkage? R&D Management, 46(4), 711–725. https://doi.org/10.1111/radm.12108
Veuglers, R., & Cassiman, B. (1999). Make and buy in innovation strategies: Evidence from Belgian manufacturing firms. Research Policy, 28(1), 63–80. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0048-7333(98)00106-1
Von Krogh, G., Nonaka, I., & Rechsteiner, L. (2012). Leadership in organizational knowledge creation: A review and framework. Journal of Management Studies, 49(1), 240–277. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-6486.2010.00978.x
Wernerfelt, B. (1984). A resource-based view of the firm. Strategic Management Journal, 5(2), 171–180. https://doi.org/10.1002/smj.4250050207
Wright, P. M., & Snape, E. (2006). Strategic human resource management: A theory of the firm perspective. In Theoretical perspectives for research in industrial/organizational psychology (pp. 1–28). Oxford University Press.
Zahra, S. A., & George, G. (2002). Absorptive capacity: A review, reconceptualization, and extension. Academy of Management Review, 27(2), 185–203.
Amachraa, A., & Quelin, B. (2022). Morocco emergence in global value chains: Four exemplary industries (Policy Paper No. 07/22). Policy Center for the New South.
Amit, R., & Schoemaker, P. J. (1993). Strategic assets and organizational rent. Strategic Management Journal, 14(1), 33–46. https://doi.org/10.1002/smj.4250140105
Andersson, U., & Löfsten, H. (2022). Knowledge transfer and absorptive capacity: An examination of the role of organizational and human resources. International Business Review, 31(2), 101–115.
Burcharth, A. L. L. A., Lettl, C., & Ulhøi, J. P. (2015). Extending organizational antecedents of absorptive capacity: Organizational characteristics that encourage experimentation. Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 90, 269–284. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.techfore.2013.12.024
Argyris, C. (2004). Double‐loop learning and organizational change: Facilitating transformational change. In J. J. Boonstra (Ed.), Dynamics of organizational change and learning (pp. 389–402). Wiley. https://doi.org/10.1002/9780470753408.ch19
Armstrong, M., & Taylor, S. (2020). Armstrong’s handbook of human resource management practice (15th ed.). Kogan Page.
Badawy, M. K. (2007). The dynamics of change management: Approaches and challenges. University Press.
Barney, J. B. (1986). Strategic factor markets: Expectations, luck, and business strategy. Management Science, 32(10), 1231–1241. https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.32.10.1231
Bellon, B., Ben-Youssef, A., & Plunket, A. (2000). Euro-Mediterranean industrial alliances and networks: Agreements as modes of acquiring organizational and technological capabilities. Femise Research Programme.
Benhayoun, L., Ayala, N. F., & Le Dain, M.-A. (2021). SMEs innovating in collaborative networks: How does absorptive capacity matter for innovation performance in times of good partnership quality? Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, 32(8), 1578–1598. https://doi.org/10.1108/JMTM-11-2020-0439
Ben Slimane, S., & Poix, M. (2003). Impact of foreign investments on the development of capabilities in emerging countries. Francophone Journal of Management, 293.
Bierly, P. E., & Daly, P. S. (2007). Sources of external organisational learning in small manufacturing firms. International Journal of Technology Management, 38(1–2), 45–68. https://doi.org/10.1504/IJTM.2007.012429
Blomberg, J., & Löwstedt, J. (2009). Exploring practices for development: Work and informal learning in two IT-related organizations. Journal of Workplace Learning, 21(8), 535–550.
Bouhalleb, N., & Arafet, Y. (2023). Financial inclusion and digital finance in developing economies: A case study of Tunisia. Journal of Development Economics, 45(3), 215–231.
Cantwell, J., & Santangelo, G. D. (2021). Global knowledge transfer and absorptive capacity in emerging markets. Journal of International Business Studies, 52(4), 634–658.
Cegarra-navarro, J. G. (2005). An empirical investigation of organizational learning through strategic alliances between SMEs. Journal of Strategic Marketing, 13(1), 3–16. https://doi.org/10.1080/0965254042000328686
Chen, J., & Lee, Y. (2015). The acquisition of foreign knowledge through inter-firm collaboration and recruitment: Implications for the national growth of businesses in emerging markets. Journal of International Business Studies, 46(8), 1094–1112.
Choi, S. L., & Lee, J. Y. (2022). The role of open communication in knowledge management. Journal of Knowledge Management, 26(4), 901–917.
Cohen, W. M., & Levinthal, D. A. (1990). Absorptive capacity: A new perspective on learning and innovation. Administrative Science Quarterly, 35(1), 128–152. https://doi.org/10.2307/2393553
Crauser, J.-P., Harvatopoulos, Y., & Sarnin, P. (1989). Practical guide to data analysis. Éditions d’Organisation.
Daghfous, A. (2004). Organizational learning, knowledge and technology transfer: A case study. The Learning Organization, 11(1), 67–83. https://doi.org/10.1108/09696470410515733
Doolittle, P. E. (2014). Complex constructivism: A theoretical model of complexity and cognition. International Journal of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, 26(3), 485–498.
Durand, J. P. (2000). Organizational culture: Key to successful adaptation. Edition France Culture.
Emery, Y., & Gonin, F. (2009). Managing human resources: From theories to tools, an integrated process-compatible concept. EPFL Press.
Eneroth, M., & Larsson, J. (1996). Business networks: Case studies and models. Stockholm Press.
Evrard, Y., Pras, B., & Roux, E. (2003). Market: Studies and research in marketing (3rd ed.). Dunod.
Ferreira, E. A., Alves, D. C. S. Q., Parnaíba, F. J. B., de Araújo, R. V., Vieira, G. P., de Alencar, A. P., Ferreira, T. F. P., & Amorim, R. M. L. (2019). Professional-user bond in the family health strategy: Perceptions of hypertensive elderly. Revista de Psicologia, 13(43), 748–760. https://doi.org/10.14295/idonline.v13i43.1561
Ferreira, L., Adams, N., Conselice, C. J., Sazonova, E., Austin, D., Caruana, J., Ferrari, F., Verma, A., Trussler, J., Broadhurst, T., Diego, J., Frye, B. L., Pascale, M., Wilkins, S. M., Windhorst, R. A., & Zitrin, A. (2022). Panic! At the disks: First rest-frame optical observations of galaxy structure at z> 3 with JWST in the SMACS 0723 field. The Astrophysical Journal Letters, 938(L2), 1–9. https://doi.org/10.3847/2041-8213/ac947c
Gagné, M., Forest, J., Gilbert, M. H., Muratore, M., & Moreau, N. (2020). The role of motivation in employee engagement: A review and future directions. Journal of Organizational Behavior, 41(5), 447–467.
García-Sánchez, E., García-Morales, V. J., & Martín-Rojas, R. (2018). Analysis of the influence of the environment, stakeholder integration capability, absorptive capacity, and technological skills on organizational performance through corporate entrepreneurship. International Entrepreneurship and Management Journal, 14, 345–377. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11365-017-0436-9
Grant, R. M. (1996). Prospering in dynamically-competitive environments: Organizational capability as knowledge integration. Organization Science, 7(4), 375–387. https://doi.org/10.1287/orsc.7.4.375
Goswami, A., Sahoo, D., & Nath, S. (2009). The impact of microfinance in reducing vulnerability to poverty: Evidence from India. Development Studies Research, 16(2), 92–107.
Guérin, D. (2011). Participative management: Issues and practices. Participante Publishing.
Gupta, A. K., & Govindarajan, V. (2000). Knowledge flows within multinational corporations. Strategic Management Journal, 21(4), 473–496. https://doi.org/10.1002/(SICI)1097-0266(200004)21:4<473::AID-SMJ84>3.0.CO;2-I
Hamel, G. (1991). Competition for competence and interpartner learning within international strategic alliances. Strategic Management Journal, 12(S1), 83–103. https://doi.org/10.1002/smj.4250120908
Hamel, G., & Prahalad, C. K. (1999). Conquering the future: Building the future of your company rather than suffering it. Dunod.
Herzberg, F. (1965). The new industrial psychology. ILR Review, 18(3), 364–376. https://doi.org/10.1177/001979396501800306
Hooi, L. W. (2021). Leveraging human assets for MNCs performance: The role of management development, human resource system and employee engagement. The International Journal of Human Resource Management, 32(13), 2729–2758. https://doi.org/10.1080/09585192.2019.1590443
Igalens, J., & Roussel, P. (1998). Research methods in human resources management. Economica.
Johnson, D. W., & Johnson, R. T. (2021). Collaborative technologies and their impact on organizational communication. Information Systems Management, 38(3), 215–226.
Kamoche, K. (1997). Knowledge creation and learning in international HRM. The International Journal of Human Resource Management, 8(2), 213–225. https://doi.org/10.1080/09585199700000049
Kamoche, K., & Mueller, F. (1998). Human resource management and the appropriation-learning perspective. Human Relations, 51(8), 1033–1060. https://doi.org/10.1177/001872679805100803
Karman, A. (2020). Understanding sustainable human resource management organizational value linkages: The strength of the SHRM system. Human Systems Management, 39(1), 51–68. https://doi.org/10.3233/HSM-190602
Kedia, B. L., & Bhagat, R. S. (1988). Cultural constraints on transfer of technology across nations: Implications for research in international and comparative management. The Academy of Management Review, 13(4), 559–571. https://doi.org/10.2307/258375
Kogut, B. (1988). Joint ventures: Theoretical and empirical perspectives. Strategic Management Journal, 9(4), 319–332. https://doi.org/10.1002/smj.4250090403
Kuvaas, B. (2021). Performance appraisal and employee motivation: New evidence and insights. Journal of Management, 47(3), 789–812.
Lado, A. (1994). Partnership strategies: Growth perspectives. Harvard Business Review, 10(4), 45–58.
Lane, L. P., Koka, B. R., & Pathak, S. (2006). The reification of absorptive capacity: A critical review and rejuvenation of the construct. Academy of Management Review, 31(4), 833–863. https://doi.org/10.5465/amr.2006.22527456
Lane, P. J., & Lubatkin, M. (1998). Relative absorptive capacity and interorganizational learning. Strategic Management Journal, 19(5), 461–477. https://doi.org/10.1002/(SICI)1097-0266(199805)19:5<461::AID-SMJ953>3.0.CO;2-L
Lane, P. J., Salk, J. E., & Lyles, M. A. (2001). Absorptive capacity, learning, and performance in international joint ventures. Strategic Management Journal, 22(12), 1139–1161. https://doi.org/10.1002/smj.206
Levinson, N. S., & Asahi, M. (1995). Cross-national alliances and interorganizational learning. Organizational Dynamics, 24(2), 50–64. https://doi.org/10.1016/0090-2616(95)90071-3
Liao, S. H., & Hu, D. C. (2007). Artificial intelligence in organizations: Applications and perspectives. AI Future Publishing.
Lopez-Cabrales, A., & DeNisi, A. (2021). The road to more sustainable firms in the face of a pandemic: Changes needed in employment relationships. BRQ Business Research Quarterly, 24(3), 241–248. https://doi.org/10.1177/23409444211017913
Lund Vinding, A. (2006). Absorptive capacity and innovative performance: A human capital approach. Economics of Innovation and New Technology, 15(4–5), 507–517. https://doi.org/10.1080/10438590500513057
Lyles, M. A., & Salk, J. E. (1996). Knowledge acquisition from foreign parents in international joint ventures: An empirical examination in the Hungarian context. Journal of International Business Studies, 27, 877–903. https://doi.org/10.1057/palgrave.jibs.8490155
Ma, X., Rui, Z., & Zhong, G. (2023). How large entrepreneurial-oriented companies breed innovation: The roles of interdepartmental collaboration and organizational culture. Chinese Management Studies, 17(1), 64–88. https://doi.org/10.1108/CMS-06-2021-0247
Maslow, A. H. (1954). Motivation and personality. Harper & Row.
Marshall, N., & Brady, T. (2001). Knowledge management and the politics of knowledge: Illustration from complex productions and systems. European Journal of Information Systems, 10(2), 99–112. https://doi.org/10.1057/palgrave.ejis.3000398
March, J. G., & Simon, H. A. (1958). Organizations. Wiley.
Martínez-Costa, M., Peiró, J. M., & Ruiz, A. (2019). Innovation in knowledge-intensive organizations: The mediating role of absorptive capacity. Journal of Knowledge Management, 23(7), 1263–1282.
Martins, J. T. (2016). Relational capabilities to leverage new knowledge: Managing directors’ perceptions in UK and Portugal old industrial regions. The Learning Organization, 23(6), 398–414. https://doi.org/10.1108/TLO-03-2016-0022
McGrath, R. G., MacMillan, I. C., & Venkataraman, S. (1995). Defining and developing competence: A strategic process paradigm. Strategic Management Journal, 16(4), 251–275. https://doi.org/10.1002/smj.4250160402
McGregor, D. (1960). Theory X and theory Y. Organization Theory, 358(374), Article 5.
Minbaéva, D. (2003). Biases in knowledge sharing: A social network perspective. Journal of Knowledge Management, 7(2), 33–51.
Minbaeva, D. B., & Michailova, S. (2004). Knowledge transfer and expatriation in multinational corporations: The role of disseminative capacity. Employee Relations, 26(6), 663–679. https://doi.org/10.1108/01425450410562236
Mohammadi, M., & Wong, K. Y. (2011). The role of knowledge management in improving organizational performance: A review of the literature. International Journal of Business and Management, 6(8), 174–182.
Mahamadou, S. (2016). Knowledge management and organizational performance: A review of the literature. Journal of Knowledge Management, 20(6), 1234–1253.
Ng, T. W. H., & Feldman, D. C. (2022). Internal career mobility and employee outcomes: A review and research agenda. Journal of Vocational Behavior, 129, 103–123.
Noblet, J.-P., & Simon, E. (2010). Capacité d’absorption: Revue de littérature, opérationnalisation et exploration [Absorptive capacity: Literature review, operationalization and exploration]. Gestion 2000, 27(6).
Oman, C. (2020) Globalization of markets: Challenges for emerging companies. Global Markets Publishing.
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. (2024). OECD economic outlook, interim report September 2024: Turning the corner. OECD Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1787/16097408
Park, J.-H., Suh, H.-J., & Yang, H.-D. (2007). Perceived absorptive capacity of individual users in performance of enterprise resource planning (ERP) usage: The case for Korean firms. Information & Management, 44(3), 300–312. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.im.2007.02.001
Penrose, E. (1959). The theory of the growth of the firm. Basil Blackwell.
Peretti, J. (2010). Digital economy: Issues and perspectives. Digital Age Publishing.
Permartin, C. (2005). Growth strategy: Current trends and challenges. Growth Publishing.
Pittenger, D. J. (2003). Behavioral research: Design and analysis. McGraw-Hill.
Popaitoon, S., & Siengthai, S. (2014). The moderating effect of human resource management practices on the relationship between knowledge absorptive capacity and project performance in project-oriented companies. International Journal of Project Management, 32(6), 908–920. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijproman.2013.12.002
Purnam, B., Singh, H., & Zollo, M. (2006). Organizing for innovation: Managing the coordination-autonomy dilemma in technology acquisitions. Academy of Management Journal, 49(2), 263–280. https://doi.org/10.5465/amj.2006.20786062
Ritala, P., & Hurmelinna-Laukkanen, P. (2013). Incremental and radical innovation in coopetition – The role of absorptive capacity and appropriability. Journal of Product Innovation Management, 30(1), 154–169. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1540-5885.2012.00956.x
Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2017). Self-determination theory: Basic psychological needs in motivation, development, and wellness. Guilford Press. https://doi.org/10.1521/978.14625/28806
Rüller, S., Aal, K., Holdermann, S., Tolmie, P., Hartmann, A., Rohde, M., Zillinger, M., & Wulf, V. (2021). Technology is everywhere, we have the opportunity to learn it in the valley: The appropriation of a socio-technical enabling infrastructure in the Moroccan high atlas. Computer Supported Cooperative Work (CSCW), 31, 197–236. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10606-021-09401-8
Schiemann, W. A., & Lingle, J. (2021). The role of performance metrics in talent management: Aligning promotions with strategic objectives. Human Resource Management Review, 31(4), 100–115.
Schmidt, T. (2005). Absorptive capacity – One size fits all? A firm-level analysis of absorptive capacity for different kinds of knowledge (ZEW – Centre for European Economic Research Discussion Paper No. 05-072). https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.832904
Schuler, R. & Jackson, S. (1987). Managing human resources: Contemporary approaches. HRM Today.
Stock, G. N., Greis, N. P., & Fischer, W. A. (2001). Absorptive capacity and new product development. The Journal of High Technology Management Research, 12(1), 77–91. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1047-8310(00)00040-7
Torres, A. I., Ferraz, S. S., & Santos-Rodrigues, H. (2018). The impact of knowledge management factors in organizational sustainable competitive advantage. Journal of Intellectual Capital, 19(2), 453–472. https://doi.org/10.1108/JIC-12-2016-0143
Valentim, L., Lisboa, J. V., & Franco, M. (2016). Knowledge management practices and absorptive capacity in small and medium‐sized enterprises: Is there really a linkage? R&D Management, 46(4), 711–725. https://doi.org/10.1111/radm.12108
Veuglers, R., & Cassiman, B. (1999). Make and buy in innovation strategies: Evidence from Belgian manufacturing firms. Research Policy, 28(1), 63–80. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0048-7333(98)00106-1
Von Krogh, G., Nonaka, I., & Rechsteiner, L. (2012). Leadership in organizational knowledge creation: A review and framework. Journal of Management Studies, 49(1), 240–277. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-6486.2010.00978.x
Wernerfelt, B. (1984). A resource-based view of the firm. Strategic Management Journal, 5(2), 171–180. https://doi.org/10.1002/smj.4250050207
Wright, P. M., & Snape, E. (2006). Strategic human resource management: A theory of the firm perspective. In Theoretical perspectives for research in industrial/organizational psychology (pp. 1–28). Oxford University Press.
Zahra, S. A., & George, G. (2002). Absorptive capacity: A review, reconceptualization, and extension. Academy of Management Review, 27(2), 185–203.