Knowledge Sharing and the Innovation Capability of Chinese Firms:The Role of Guanxi

Abstract

Building on the theory of Social Capital the present theoretical study aims to introduce a framework to analyze the extent to which the innovation capability of Chinese firms is affected by Guanxi as a moderator between the former and the knowledge sharing behaviors among individuals and teams. The three dimensions of knowledge sharing considered here are: Type of knowledge, quantity and quality of knowledge shared plus the influence of the last two on the perceptions of trustworthiness among employees. Also this article includes propositions and recommendations to lead future research in this area.