Sources of innovation and the use of KIBS by manufacturing firms

Abstract

Using data from a survey of 559 innovative manufacturing firms in Quebec, we analyse knowledge-sourcing strategies adopted by firms and examine the relationship between use of service functions and knowledge-sourcing strategies. Four strategies are identified: low-profile sourcing, internal-oriented sourcing, market-oriented sourcing and full-scope sourcing. The results reveal knowledge-sourcing strategies are linked to a particular mix of service functions, and the different types of services are not equally important across the different knowledge-sourcing strategies.