Social Capital, Networks, and Knowledge Transfer

Abstract

We examine how social capital dimensions of networks affect the transfer of knowl edge between network members. We distinguish among three common network types: intracorporate networks, strategic alliances, and industrial districts. Using a social capital framework, we identify structural, cognitive, and relational dimensions for the three network types. We then link these social capital dimensions to the conditions that facilitate knowledge transfer. In doing so, we propose a set of conditions that promote knowledge transfer for the different network types.

The Social Capital and the Development of Collaborative Networks in the Tourism Sector: a Case Study on The Grupo Gestor do Turismo Rural do Rio Grande do Sul (Rural Tourism Steering Group) - RS, Brazil

“…In order to identify different aspects of social capital and to deepen its understanding, Nahapiet & Ghoshal (1998) considered important to analyze these dimensions separately. Thereafter, these dimensions were used by other authors, like Lesser in 2000 andInkpen &Tsang in 2005, who believes that social relations involve three basic dimensions that influence the development of social capital: the structure of relationships, the interpersonal dynamics and the common context and language.…”

Social capital and governance for sustainable rural development

“…These can simultaneously enable and restrict its stakeholders. Inkpen and Tsang (2005) distinguish conditions of social capital, including three network types in a matrix format: intra-corporate network, strategic alliance and industrial district, and three key social capital dimensions. These are the structural social capital dilemma involving networked actors' relationship patterns, including network ties, confi guration and stability; cognitive social capital, e.g.…”

“…The research methodology was divided into two steps. The fi rst applies Inkpen and Tsang's (2005) framework to identify the main characteristics of both the social capital dimensions (structural, cognitive and relational) relative to the case study area's related network type. Building on social capital theory and knowledge sharing, the second aims to verify how the embedded governance model developed by the European project supported integrated, sustainable rural tourism development.…”

“…The case study outcomes centre on the characteristics assumed by three social capital dimensions (Inkpen and Tsang, 2005). These are refl ected in the rural activities, traditional society structures and lifestyle, and result in the assimilation of the so called industrial district network type.…”

“…Towards this end the paper draws on social capital theory (Inkpen and Tsang, 2005) and the embedded governance model (Go and Trunfi o, 2011a) as a mechanism to overcome market failures. It then applies these concepts to a case study, funded by the European Regional Development Fund (2007-2013, as part of the Project Listen to the Voice of Villages, aimed at enhancing the competitiveness and attractiveness of three of Trentino's mountain villages situated in a region of northeast Italy.…”