A two-sided matching decision method for supply and demand of technological knowledge

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to propose a novel prospect-based two-sided matching decision model for matching supply and demand of technological knowledge assisted by a broker. This model enables the analyst to account for the stakeholders’ psychological behaviours and their impact on the matching decision in an open innovation setting. Design/methodology/approach The prospect theory and grey relational analysis are used to develop the proposed two-sided matching decision framework. Findings By properly calibrating model parameters, the case study demonstrates that the proposed approach can be applied to real-world technological knowledge trading in a market for technology (MFT) and yields matching results that are more consistent with the reality. Research limitations/implications The proposed model does not differentiate the types of knowledge exchanged (established vs novel, tacit vs codified, general vs specialized) (Ardito et al., 2016, Nielsen and Nielsen, 2009). Moreover, the model focuses on incorporating psychological behaviour of the MFT participants and does not consider their other characteristics. Practical implications The proposed model can be applied to achieve a better matching between technological knowledge suppliers and users in a broker-assisted MFT. Social implications A better matching between technological knowledge suppliers and users can enhance the success of open innovation, thereby contributing to the betterment of the society. Originality/value This paper furnishes a novel theoretical model for matching supply and demand in a broker-assisted MFT. Methodologically, the proposed model can effectively capture market participants’ psychological considerations.