Hierarchical Segmentation of R&D Process and Intellectual Property Protection: Evidence from Multinational R&D Labs in China
39 Pages Posted: 22 Apr 2008
Date Written: 2008
Abstract
This paper examines how multinational corporations (MNCs) protect their research and development (R&D) activities that are conducted in weak intellectual property rights (IPR) regime countries. Findings from a small scale survey and three case studies in China show that hierarchical segmentation of R&D process can be an effective way for MNC R&D labs to protect their intellectual property. Furthermore, a modular R&D structure seen in many IT companies can facilitate this hierarchical segmentation. A center-peripheral R&D organizational structure of MNCs thus appears in the era of globalization of R&D.
Keywords: Intellectual Property Protection, Innovation, Multinational Corporation, Globalization of R&D, Hierarchical segmentation, China
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation