GLOBAL KNOWLEDGE NETWORKS IN NEW PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT. THE NOTEBOOK PC INDUSTRY

Jason Dedrik (Personal Computing Industry Center, University of California, Irving)

Kennet L. Kraemer (University of California, Irving) 

Businesses are increasingly relying on a global knowledge networks to support innovation and create competitive advantage. The scope of knowledge required in many industries is far greater than any individual firm can master, so firms must tap into networks that cross organizational and national boundaries. Some of these networks are global in scale, linking firms and individuals from around the world to create new knowledge and develop new products and services.
The design and development of notebook computers illustrates the use of global knowledge networks to extend the innovative capabilities of the firm. Branded PC makers rely on a network of component suppliers and original design manufacturers (ODMs) to bring new notebook models to market and incorporate new technologies into those products. The industry is global, but product development and manufacturing are concentrated almost entirely in the U.S., Japan, Taiwan and China.