Can innovative knowledge management platforms lead to corporate innovation? Evidence from academician workstations in China

Purpose: This paper aims to analyse the role of government-led innovative knowledge management platforms in innovation knowledge management, social network effects and innovative resource clusters in the context of academician workstations in China. Specifically, this paper empirically studies the impact of academician workstations on corporate innovation capabilities and the mechanisms behind this impact. Design/methodology/approach: This study uses the propensity matching score method and difference-in-differences method to test the relationship between academician workstations and corporate innovation capabilities. Baron and Kenny’s (1986) mediation method is used to test two potential mechanisms. Findings: Academician workstations significantly improve corporate innovation capabilities because of their contribution to knowledge and innovation management. The facilitation effects are stronger in non-state-owned firms, high-tech firms and firms in industries with low levels of competition. Further, academician workstations enhance corporate innovation capabilities through their funding effect. Practical implications: This paper encourages policymakers to create a better market environment and stable support policies to facilitate sustainable scientific and technological innovation. Originality/value: To the best of authors’ knowledge, this study is among the first to empirically analyse the impacts of innovative knowledge management platforms on corporate innovation. It enriches the theoretical perspective of innovation platforms and provides an excellent research perspective for effectively analysing the impacts of innovation platforms. This study also contributes to the literature on the determinants of innovation.