Knowledge Spillover Pattern Among Nano and Biotechnology Knowledge-Based Companies

Purpose: Knowledge spillover refers to the intellectual advantage gained through the exchange of information, where the producer does not receive a direct reward, or the reward received is less than the value of the knowledge generated. In fact, knowledge spillover refers to a situation in which a company benefits from the research and development efforts of another financial enterprise without providing substantial compensation to that economic entity. The purpose of the current research was to develop a model for knowledge spillover among knowledge-based nanotechnology and biotechnology companies.
Method: The methodology of the current research is classified as applied research utilizing a qualitative approach with an exploratory nature. Additionally, this study was guided by a fundamental objective and employed qualitative analysis in conjunction with a sequential exploratory design. In mixed exploratory research projects, the researcher seeks to gain a comprehensive understanding of an uncertain situation. To achieve this, they first collect qualitative data. Therefore, to implement this plan, the first stage involves identifying the components of knowledge spillover among knowledge-based companies in the fields of nanotechnology and biotechnology. By utilizing foundational
data theory and conducting interviews based on theoretical sampling, various aspects of this process were identified. In this research, foundational grounded theory was employed, and interviews
were conducted to extract components of knowledge spillover. The community comprised experts, entrepreneurs, and managers from knowledge-based nano and biotechnology companies. A purposive sampling method was employed, and ultimately, based on theoretical saturation, 12 individuals participated in the study. Through semi-structured interviews with experts and the acquisition
of necessary agreements, the dimensions, components, and final indicators for the knowledge management model were identified and established. To ensure the validity of the qualitative component (both form and content validity) of the research, as well as to guarantee the accuracy and reliability of the findings from the perspectives of the researcher, participants, and readers of the research report, several measures were implemented. These included member checks, peer reviews, and the expertise and records of supervisors and advisors. The research team brought several years of experience in the fields of information science, epistemology, and knowledge management, which contributed to the collaborative nature of the study. For assessing reliability, the reproducibility index was calculated between two coders.
Findings: The findings indicate that the causal factors contributing to knowledge overflow include organizational causes, a culture of communication and collaboration, knowledge-related factors, innovative activities, leadership, research and development, human resources, and support. The consequences of knowledge spillover encompass an increase in knowledge and capabilities, economic impacts, functional outcomes, the expansion of organizational networks and communications, and technological advancements. The background conditions for knowledge overflow consist of infrastructure, the development of education and learning, enhancement of abilities and skills, as well as investment, trade, and communication. Intervening conditions affecting knowledge overflow include political, cultural, and interactive factors. Strategies for managing knowledge spillover involve communication and interaction strategies, the development of systems and structures, business strategies, and political strategies. The fuzzy Delphi results indicated that all concepts associated with the knowledge overflow paradigm model had an acceptance threshold exceeding 0.7, and the identified components were validated for the paradigm model.
Conclusion: In this research, we investigated the consequences, background conditions, intervening factors, and knowledge spillover strategies among knowledge-based companies in the fields of nanotechnology and biotechnology. The findings indicate that providing certain factors and conditions, as well as eliminating obstacles through appropriate strategies, can effectively promote knowledge spillover, resulting in positive consequences for both companies and society as a whole. Knowledge spillover, as a type of external factor, leads to both involuntary leakage and voluntary exchange of knowledge from developed countries. This phenomenon serves as a catalyst for enhancing the productivity of production factors and yields positive effects. Based on the concept of knowledge spillover, organizations can identify scarce resources and valuable insights. By making this knowledge accessible to all employees, companies can facilitate the mastery of new and updated information. In knowledge-based organizations, knowledge is regarded as the most important asset. When utilized effectively, it can enhance employees' capabilities and improve both production and services. The overflow of knowledge within these companies, through the understanding of both internal and external forces and their integration, enhances learning, empowers individuals and organizations, and ultimately fosters increased organizational innovation. The abundance of knowledge accelerates technological advancement and economic growth. One key channel for absorbing this knowledge is the importation of intermediate and capital goods from developed countries. When strategically targeted, these imports enhance the variety and quality of goods available, facilitating technology transfer and learning opportunities. This influx of imported knowledge benefits companies in developing countries and contributes to the overall improvement of their economic conditions. The findings of this research are significant for policymakers in the fields of knowledge-based nanotechnology and biotechnology companies. They provide insights into implementing the paradigm model of knowledge spillover, which can help these companies gain a competitive advantage and enhance their standing on an international scale. Additionally, this research can serve as a valuable guide for managers and specialists in these industries.