Title: Individual differences and knowledge acquisition capability in joint ICT project teams in Malaysia

Authors: Adedapo Oluwaseyi Ojo; Murali Raman

Addresses: Faculty of Management, Multimedia University, Persairan Multimedia, Cyberjaya 63100, Malaysia ' Faculty of Management, Multimedia University, Persairan Multimedia, Cyberjaya 63100, Malaysia

Abstract: This study investigates the underlying differences in individual knowledge acquisition capabilities. Drawing on the individual dimension of absorptive capacity, we clarify the antecedents of local team member's capability to acquire foreign partner's knowledge in joint ICT project team. Specifically, we proposed prior experience, learning goal orientation and need for cognition as antecedents to local employee's abilities to (1) recognise the value of and (2) assimilate foreign partner's knowledge. The hypothesised model was validated by the results of the structural equation modelling conducted using the data gathered from a cross-sectional survey of 205 local team members of joint ICT project teams in Malaysia. Most of the hypothesised relationships were supported, with further discussion focused on the non-supported relationships. Finally, the theoretical and practical implications of these findings were explained.

Keywords: absorptive capacity; ICT project team; individual differences; knowledge acquisition capability; learning goal orientation; Malaysia; need for cognition; prior experience.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTPM.2017.083740

International Journal of Technology, Policy and Management, 2017 Vol.17 No.1, pp.20 - 39

Received: 13 Feb 2016
Accepted: 11 Jun 2016
Published online: 21 Apr 2017 *

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