Networks, R&D Projects and Subsidiary Behavior in a Host Country

Abstract This article aims to verify how multinational subsidiaries establish their networks in a host country. The literature addresses only networks formed between the subsidiary and its mother and sister companies. However, to consider the external network is essential, because the subsidiaries are not a mere receptor of knowledge from the headquarters, they develop their own capability for creating knowledge and innovation for the multinational. To examine the creation of these networks, this paper focuses on two subsidiaries located in Brazil belonging to a group that carries out R&D projects in partnership with several organizations in the country and creates research and development networks in their sector. To analyze the network characteristics, the authors used Ucinet and NetDraw software and found the following results: (a) geographic distance is a driver in establishing partnership among subsidiaries and executor organizations; (b) the majority of the relationships are tied between a company and a research organization, showing that theoretical knowledge and practical experience are considered by companies to develop and market project outcomes; and (c) although the subsidiaries belong to the same group, they do not have strong ties.

摘要 本文旨在探究跨国子公司如何在东道国搭建自身合作网络。现有研究仅关注子公司与其母公司及姊妹公司间形成的网络，但考量外部网络实为必要：子公司并非仅被动接收总部传递的知识，反而能够自主开发能力，为跨国集团开展知识创造与创新活动。为研究此类网络的构建过程，本文聚焦于巴西境内的两家子公司——该集团与巴西境内多家机构合作开展研发项目，并在所在行业构建研发合作网络。为分析网络特征，作者采用Ucinet与NetDraw软件进行分析，得到以下结论：（a）地理距离是推动子公司与执行机构建立合作关系的核心驱动因素；（b）多数合作关系存在于企业与科研机构之间，表明企业在开发和市场化项目成果时，会兼顾理论知识与实践经验；（c）尽管上述子公司同属一个集团，但彼此之间并未形成紧密联结。