The role of task conflict in cooperative innovation projects: An organizational learning theory perspective

作者：Mu, Tian; Yang, Jianjun^*; Zhang, Feng; Lyu, Chongchong; Deng, Cheng

来源：International Journal of Project Management, 2021, 39(3): 236-248.

DOI：10.1016/j.ijproman.2020.12.005

• Cooperative innovation projects (CIPs)
• Task conflict
• Organizational learning theory
• Knowledge tacitness
• Ambiguity
• Knowledge base compatibility

Drawing on organizational learning theory, this study aims to investigate the effects of task conflict on the success of cooperative innovation projects (CIPs) and to identify the mediating mechanisms through which such effects are achieved. Our conceptual model was validated by a cross-sectional sample of 291 Chinese manufacturing firms, in each of which multiple key informants provided data about CIPs. The results indicate that the relationship between task conflict and CIP success is achieved indirectly through the mediating effects of the tacitness and ambiguity of knowledge acquired from the CIP partner, and the knowledge base compatibility of the focal firm with the partner. The mediating mechanisms elaborated in this paper probe the influence of task conflict on CIP success more thoroughly and constructively. Our findings suggest that project managers should adopt a constructive debate approach for knowledge acquisition and assimilation from their CIP partners.

• 单位
  西安交通大学