A PROCESS THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE COMBINATION ROUTINES

This study examines how firms manage knowledge combination for ongoing production of novel outputs. Multiple case studies in sixteen project-based firms reveal that firms can introduce ongoing novel outcomes by means of knowledge combination routines (KCRs). KCR enables a firm to come up with novel outputs by relying on common procedures. This study clarifies the process of knowledge combination in organizations by analyzing KCRs. KCRs consist of three events: problem definition, team formation, and project execution. Problem definition sets a scope for knowledge combination. Team formation influences available knowledge and problem execution unites this knowledge. This study identifies organizational contingencies that influence each stage in the process.