How do knowledge characteristics affect firm's knowledge sharing intention in interfirm cooperation? An empirical study

Based on the knowledge-based view and relational view, we develop a research model to explore how a firm's knowledge structure attributes (i.e. breadth, depth) are associated with its intention to share knowledge, as well as the moderating effects of two relational factors (strategic consensus and bilateral specific asset investments) on these relationships in interfirm cooperation. Hierarchical regression analyses are conducted to test the research model based on the data collected from 270 manufacturing firms in China. The results suggest that knowledge breadth and depth affect knowledge sharing intention in opposite directions. Specifically, firms with a broad knowledge base are more likely to share their knowledge in interfirm cooperation, whereas firms with deep knowledge are reluctant to share. More importantly, the empirical results suggest that both strategic consensus and bilateral specific asset investments positively moderate the relationships between knowledge structure attributes and knowledge sharing intention, implying that both mechanisms can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of knowledge sharing and consequently, affect senders' intention to share their knowledge.