An empirical model of the organization knowledge system in new product development firms

A structural equation model of the knowledge system for new product development (NPD) is derived from a sample of 1200 engineers in 10 technology firms, and validated on a hold-out sample. Core to the model are knowledge work behaviors that: (1) expand knowledge relevant to NPD by focusing on the performance of the organization as a system; (2) increase knowledge available by linking knowledge sources with needs; (3) access procedural knowledge by using systematic processes; and (4) generate knowledge by trying new approaches and experimenting. We examine the organizational antecedents of these behaviors, and their impacts on knowledge outcomes and organizational effectiveness. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.