Managing Indian IT professionals for global competitiveness: the role of human resource practices in developing knowledge and learning capabilities for innovation

Abstract

Little is known about how human resource practices contribute towards the competitiveness of people based-knowledge intensive organisations in developing countries. This paper examines the role of human resource practices in developing knowledge and learning capabilities for innovation in the Indian information technology services sector. The study draws from the experience of a sample of 11 of the largest information technology service providers (ITSPs) in India and is based on in-depth interviews. The main finding suggests that the talent management architecture of ITSPs that comprises human resource practices and the development of knowledge and learning capabilities is the main drivers of innovation. A conceptual framework showing the link between human resource practices, knowledge and learning capabilities and innovation of ITSPs is developed followed by the limitations of the study and avenues for future research.

Keywords:

• human resource practices
• knowledge and learning capabilities
• innovation
• information technology professionals
• India

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Eric Kong

About the authors

Eric Kong is a Senior Lecturer at the School of Management & Marketing, University of Southern Queensland, Australia. His current research interests include intellectual capital, knowledge management, non-profit management and strategic management. He has published 22 international refereed journal articles, 29 refereed conference papers, one scholarly research book and one scholarly research book chapter.

Doren Chadee

Doren Chadee is a Professor of International Business at the School of Management & Marketing at Deakin University, Australia. His main research interests are in the broad areas of international business with a particular focus on marketing and Asian economies.

Revti Raman

Revti Raman is a Lecturer in International Business at the School of Marketing & International Business in Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand. His major teaching and research interests are in the areas of international business management and strategy.