Where Do You Go for Human Resource Management Knowledge? The Importance of Inter-Organizational Networks

Abstract

This study untangles the social processes and inter-organizational mechanisms underlying human resource management (HRM) knowledge networks. The research questions serve to advance understanding of how HRM knowledge flows between firms under contractual relationships and in the absence of formal relationships. The study analyzes data from a complete network of 51 high-technology firms located in a science and technology park to report the structural properties and relational dimensions of inter-diffusion of HRM knowledge. The results from this social network analysis show that the firms in the study actively engage in the diffusion of HRM knowledge. Specifically, the results not only indicate the preeminence of formal ties but also of relational factors relating to firm legitimacy, prestige, and reciprocity. Participation in inter-organizational knowledge networks appears to be an effective tool for obtaining HRM knowledge as well as for enhancing trust between firms and establishing legitimacy and prestige among participating firms.

Keywords: HRM knowledge, diffusion, inter-organizational relationships, informal networks, collaboration, reciprocity, prestige, social network analysis

JEL Classification: 031, M12, L14