This study investigates the link between global integration -- defined as the intra-firm cross-border transfer of operational resources -- and performance in multinational professional engineering companies. Using a combination of qualitative and quantitative techniques, we find some support for a positive association. We review two bodies of scholarship germane to our topic: the global integration - performance literature and the multinationality - performance literature. The inclusion of the latter is justified since the espoused performance benefits of multinationality are predominantly realised through global integration. Based upon an evaluation of these two bodies of scholarship and qualitative insights, we propose a positive relationship between global integration and performance as well as a mediating relationship, with global integration acting as a mediator between multinationality and performance. Hypothesis testing is performed in Partial Least Squares, a structural equation modelling technique ideally suited for small samples. Results reveal a significant positive association between global integration and MNC profitability. A separate research model testing the relationship between global integration and the alternative dependent, MNC growth, is rejected. Further analysis of the profitability-based research model provides support for the mediational hypothesis: the relationship between multinationality and profitability is fully mediated, suggesting no gains from multinationality per se. Supplementary tests reveal that the profitability effects of global integration are enhanced when it is strongly motivated by the desire to take advantage of specialised skills within the MNC; no such claim of moderation can be made when global integration is strongly motivated by a desire to improve staff utilisation on a global basis. The relationship between global integration and profitability is also unaffected by the origins (headquarters vs. subsidiaries) of the intra-firm operational resource transfers that constitute global integration.

Thesis (M.A.)--Oregon State University, 2009. / Printout. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 122-126). Also available on the World Wide Web.

Thesis (PhD) -- Swinburne University of Technology, Australian Graduate School of Entrepreneurship, 2007. / [Submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements of the degree of Doctor of Philosophy, Australian Graduate School of Entrepreneurship, Swinburne University of Technology, 2007]. Typescript. Includes bibliographical references (p. 206-214).

Zugl.: Leipzig, Univ., Diss., 2006 / Includes bibliographical references and index.

Thesis (MPhil)--University of Stellenbosch, 2007. / Bibliography. Also available via the Internet.

Thesis (M.Ap.C.T. & M.)--Cleveland State University, 2008 / Abstract. Title from PDF t.p. (viewed on July 3, 2008). Includes bibliographical references (p. 92-99). Available online via the OhioLINK ETD Center. Also available in print.

Thesis (Master)--İzmir Institute of Technology, İzmir, 2004 / Includes bibliographical references (leaves. 142).

Thesis (M.A.)--University of Wyoming, 2007. / Title from PDF title page (viewed on June 9, 2009). Includes bibliographical references (p. 89-92).

Thesis (M.A.)--Rutgers University, 2010. / "Graduate Program in Liberal Studies." Includes bibliographical references (p. 37-38).

Thesis (M.A. (Journalism & Media Studies))--Rhodes University, 2004.