INTRAFIRM TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE AND COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE: A FRAMEWORK AND EXPLORATORY STUDY

Morry Ghingo/d

Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania Bloomsburg , PA

Ernest H. Hall, Jr.

University of Southern Indiana Evansville , IN

Bruce Johnson

Xavier University Cincinnati , OH


Abstract

The ability of managers to monitor; acquire, and manage new technologies may be a critical resource in developing a sustainable competitive advantage (Barney, 1991). Expanding on recent work by Day (1994), this paper develops a conceptual framework that links intra firm technical knowledge with the ability to develop and maintain a sustainable competitive advantage. Focusing on a sample of production/operation managers, a key industrial buying constituency, an exploratory study was undertaken that examined the linkage between managers' technical knowledge and their decision making styles and outcomes. Results of the present study suggest strong relationships among technical knowledge, decision making styles and outcomes. Based on these findings, it is argued that firms with managers who possess greater technical knowledge will be better equipped to develop and maintain a competitive advantage.

Sub Content Box

Gibson D. Lewis
Center For Business and
Economic Development
SHSU Box 2056
Huntsville TX 77341-2056
936-294-1518 Center Office
936-294-3957 Center Fax