Abstract (EN)

What does it mean to transfer knowledge in organizations ? An empirical illustration. The aim of this working paper is to show evidence of the complementarity of the two main streams of research regarding to knowledge transfers. To do so, I propose the use of a new theoretical paradigm which views transfers as moving networks of the knowledge reservoirs of the firm. Those reservoirs have been identified as the tasks, the tools and human capital. I have collected empirical qualitative data from a single case to illustrate our theoretical propositions. I’ve been able to exhibit two different organisational structures supporting transfers of knowledge according to its complexity. Theses two organisational structures allow different kind of transfer mechanisms belonging to the two main streams of research in the field. In so doing, I want to emphasize the necessity of considering knowledge transfers as a complex organisational phenomenon that requires a global theoretical approach borrowing insights to the resources based view, the socio-cognitive theories and the networks ones