Analyzing Inter-organizational Learning, Control Mechanisms, and Self-Innovation: A Comparative Study across Two Contexts of Technological Disparity

Abstract

This study conducts a comparative analysis of inter-organizational learning, control mechanisms, and self-innovation in two distinct contexts characterized by technological disparity. Inter-organizational learning plays a crucial role in facilitating knowledge exchange and innovation across organizational boundaries. Drawing on insights from organizational theory and innovation management, this research investigates how different control mechanisms influence the dynamics of inter-organizational learning and subsequent self-innovation processes within contexts marked by varying levels of technological advancement. Through a comparative case study approach, this research explores the mechanisms through which organizations navigate knowledge flows, manage uncertainty, and foster innovation in environments with differing technological landscapes. By examining the interplay between hierarchical control mechanisms, such as formal rules and procedures, and decentralized mechanisms, such as trust-based relationships and informal networks, this study elucidates their impact on inter-organizational learning outcomes and the ability of organizations to innovate autonomously. Furthermore, this research investigates the role of contextual factors, such as industry norms, regulatory frameworks, and cultural differences, in shaping the effectiveness of control mechanisms and their implications for self-innovation processes. By synthesizing insights from multiple cases across diverse sectors and geographical regions, this study offers theoretical insights into the complex interrelationships between inter-organizational learning, control mechanisms, and self-innovation in heterogeneous technological contexts. The findings contribute to both academic discourse and managerial practice by informing strategies for fostering collaborative innovation and enhancing organizational adaptability in contexts characterized by technological diversity.