Perceived High Commitment
Work System, the Transactive
Memory System, and New Product
Performance
Abstract

The transactive memory system refers to the processes by which work
team members cooperate with teammates in accomplishing team
assignments. Previous studies have found that transactive memory systems
can improve team performance. However, scholars know less about what
managers can do to nurture a transactive memory system in a work team.
Based on the behavioral theory of human resource management, we
propose that by implementing a set of integrated human resource
practices -called the high commitment work system- with team members,
managers can elicit the perception of a transactive memory system among
team members to enhance team performance. With survey data collected
from 336 new product development engineers in 73 new product
development teams, we find transactive memory system mediates the
positive relationship between team-aggregated perception of human
resource management practices and new product performance.