Formal mechanisms of repatriate knowledge transfer and assimilation : A study of knowledge management in MNCs

Abstract: This paper investigates formal mechanisms of knowledge transfer and assimilation in Large Cap companies listed on the Nordic Exchange, as well as potential reasons to why formal mechanisms are not used or implemented. The findings, that are consistent with previous research on the subject, indicate that formal mechanisms like reports, seminars, meetings, workshops, IT based systems, and rewards to motivate and stimulate knowledge transfer and assimilation, are in general not used. Investigate potential explanations to why formal mechanisms are not implemented or used are related to the tacit nature of knowledge, the organizational culture and structure, as well as the absence of interest, initiatives and structures.