KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER WITHIN CLUSTERS : THE CASE OF SUSTAINABLE SWEDEN SOUTHEAST AB

Abstract: Knowledge is nowadays ever-present and often described as an intangible asset, but in contrast to other assets; the consumption of it does not diminish the quantity left for others (Nonaka and Teece, 2001). Due to the importance of knowledge, the premise of this thesis is to identify, describe and analyze how a cluster can transfer knowledge. The methodology used was based on a single case study with a systematic combining approach. The case study within this thesis is about the cluster of Sustainable Sweden Southeast (SSSE) which contains personal interviews with several actors of the cluster of SSSE. The theoretical framework entails the fundament on which the study is based, including definitions of knowledge, knowledge transfer, the actors and the influence of relationships during the transfer of knowledge. There is an analysis done by linking the theoretical framework to the empirical findings on how SSSE can transfer knowledge within its actors. Additionally, there is a description about the barriers faced during the knowledge transfer and the influence of relationship building within this process. Finally the conclusion should provide the reader with valuable insights according to the knowledge transfer within clusters. It incorporates the relevance of special actors and their influence in the process, as well as the possible barriers that could be faced and the relationship building process within clusters. The thesis ends with recommendations and managerial implications for SSSE.