A Knowledge-Based Theory of the Firm - the Problem-Solving Perspective

Organization Science, Vol. 15, pp. 617-632, November-December 2004

Posted: 27 Jun 2005

See all articles by Jackson A. Nickerson

Jackson A. Nickerson

Washington University in St. Louis - John M. Olin Business School

Todd Zenger

University of Utah

Abstract

We develop in this paper a knowledge-based theory of the firm. While existing knowledge-based theory focuses on the efficiency of hierarchy in economizing on knowledge exchange, we develop a theory of the firm which focuses on the efficiency of alternative organizational forms in generating knowledge or capability. Our theory begins with the problem as the basic unit of analysis, arguing that a problem's complexity influences the optimal method of solution search and the optimal means of organizing that search. The distinguishing feature that differentiates among organizational alternatives is the different way in which each resolves conflict over the selection of solution trials, i.e., the way it chooses the path of search. Our theory predicts that efficiency demands these governance alternatives be matched in a discriminating way to problems based on their associated benefits and costs in governing solution search. In doing so, our theory is among the first to treat simultaneously both the boundary choice (i.e., internal vs. external) and the choice among alternative internal approaches to organizing.

Keywords: Theory of the firm, knowledge-based view, firm boundaries, problem solving

JEL Classification: D23, L21, L22, L14

Suggested Citation

Nickerson, Jackson A. and Zenger, Todd R., A Knowledge-Based Theory of the Firm - the Problem-Solving Perspective. Organization Science, Vol. 15, pp. 617-632, November-December 2004, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=747564

Jackson A. Nickerson

Washington University in St. Louis - John M. Olin Business School ( email )

One Brookings Drive
Campus Box 1133
St. Louis, MO 63130-4899
United States
314-935-6366 (Phone)
314-935-6359 (Fax)

Todd R. Zenger (Contact Author)

University of Utah ( email )

David Eccles School of Business
1655 East Campus Center Drive
Salt Lake City, UT 84112
United States
801 585-3981 (Phone)
801 581-7939 (Fax)

Do you have negative results from your research you’d like to share?

Paper statistics

Abstract Views
1,129
PlumX Metrics