The strategic HRM configuration for competitive advantage: Evidence from Japanese firms in China and Taiwan

Norihiko Takeuchi*, Mitsuru Wakabayashi, Ziguang Chen

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

66 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The purpose of the present study was to identify the pattern of HRM practices that would lead to an improvement in business performance in Chinese- and Taiwanese-based Japanese affiliates in the light of a configurational perspective, following the current debate in the field of strategic human resource management (SHRM). In particular, a set of working hypotheses regarding the structural relationship among HRM practices for producing enhanced business results was drawn from the organizational learning theoretical framework that emphasizes a linkage between the process of learning and firm performance. Our conceptual model and specific hypotheses were examined using a sample of 286 Japanese affiliates operating in Mainland China and Taiwan. The results provided basic support for the configurational hypothesis in predicting the financial aspect of an affiliate's performance. It is argued that the findings of the study have several important implications for the untested relationships between high commitment work practices (HCWPs) and high performance work systems (HPWSs) from a Japanese management perspective. In addition, the manner in which each HRM technique can be used by Japanese overseas affiliates to enhance their learning and adaptive capabilities is discussed.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)447-480
Number of pages34
JournalAsia Pacific Journal of Management
Volume20
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2003
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Configurational perspective
  • HRM practices
  • Japanese affiliates in Mainland China and Taiwan
  • Organizational learning
  • Organizational performance
  • Structural equation modeling (SEM)

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Business and International Management
  • Economics, Econometrics and Finance (miscellaneous)
  • Strategy and Management

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