The Role of Knowledge in the Internationalization Process of Firms - a Review of Selected Research Literature

Knowledge is the centerpiece in theories on firm's internationalization, however the understanding of how internationalization knowledge is acquired, retained, transformed and transferred has developed significantly over the past decades. This paper aims at presenting the results of selected literature review on diverse approaches to the role of knowledge in the process of internationalization of companies. Both the sequential perspective and the international new venture approach are taken into account. Significant differences in the way specific knowledge aspects are emphasized in each approach, as well as their role in the process of internationalization, are presented. A more holistic, knowledge-based conceptualization of internationalization, that integrates dominant, yet conflicting perspectives in the literature is called upon, aiming to facilitate future research progress in this area.