Study on Knowledge Transfer Risks between Member Enterprises of Virtual Enterprise

Along with the rapid development of virtual enterprise (VE), knowledge transfer and share between member enterprises (MEs) of VE become more and more important. Studies around knowledge transfer mainly focused on the procedure and transfer model, while little is discussed for its risks. In our study, we analyzed the causations of knowledge transfer risks between MEs of VE according to quantities of references and wide spot investigations, and put a series of preventative means forward. Our results indicated that: (1) the ability and willingness of MEs, some of the inherent features of knowledge and environments are the key causations of knowledge transfer risks; (2) risk preventative mechanism is established based on the six measures, that is, selecting suitable partner, designing rational contract, setting up the team for knowledge transfer management, strengthening communication and cooperation, protecting knowledge distinctively, and implementing punitive measures. The results of this study may offer important directions to theories and practices to decrease knowledge transfer risks between MEs of VE.