Multinational R&D in China : Differentiation and integration of global R&D networks

Based on case studies of multinational R&D centres in China, this paper views the central task of corporate R&D globalisation as: differentiating R&D units to take advantage of location-specific resources and integrating R&D efforts in multiple locations to achieve the whole corporation's goals. Four differentiated R&D units are identified: the technology competence unit, the system competence unit, the assignment unit, and the support unit. These four units form a complete R&D system covering all stages of R&D life circle. Three main driving resources - technology strength, human capital, and the market - are investigated, as well as their relationships to different types of R&D. Control, communication, and external collaboration issues are also discussed for these four types of R&D units