A Case Study of Tacit Knowledge Diffusion Object Preference in R&D Teams

Abstract

According to the relevant assumptions of R&D team tacit knowledge target selection, the paper considers “knowledge proximity”, “interpersonal proximity”, “physical distance proximity”, “degree proximity” between members as independent variables, and “tacit knowledge diffusion target selection” as the dependent variable. Through collecting one R&D team tacit knowledge diffusion dates under informal networks environment, it utilizes social network analysis tool and verifies related hypothesis rationality by QAP correlation and regression analysis. The paper finds that “knowledge proximity” and “interpersonal proximity” are the main preferences about tacit knowledge target selection, which will provide some enlightenment on knowledge cooperation and interpersonal interaction in R&D team.