Individual differences and knowledge acquisition capability in joint ICT project teams in Malaysia

This study investigates the underlying differences in individual knowledge acquisition capabilities. Drawing on the individual dimension of absorptive capacity, we clarify the antecedents of local team member's capability to acquire foreign partner's knowledge in joint ICT project team. Specifically, we proposed prior experience, learning goal orientation and need for cognition as antecedents to local employee's abilities to (1) recognise the value of and (2) assimilate foreign partner's knowledge. The hypothesised model was validated by the results of the structural equation modelling conducted using the data gathered from a cross-sectional survey of 205 local team members of joint ICT project teams in Malaysia. Most of the hypothesised relationships were supported, with further discussion focused on the non-supported relationships. Finally, the theoretical and practical implications of these findings were explained.