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Article
Publication date: 22 February 2013

Xiangjie Zheng and Yan Zhao

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of large‐scale collaboration network structure on firm innovation capability.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of large‐scale collaboration network structure on firm innovation capability.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors utilize negative binomial regression models to explore the relationships between network structure and patent productivity.

Findings

Results demonstrate that firms embedded in alliance networks with higher reach will have greater innovative output, but fail to support the higher clustering enhances innovative productivity significantly, which is different from recent concerns regarding positive effects of higher clustering on patent output. The authors also find that the effect of alliance network as a conduit of knowledge transfer decays over time. Furthermore, both clustering and reach have mutually positive effects on the firm innovation with increases in the other.

Practical implications

Network structure attribute should be considered adequately when firms develop alliance activities and when relevant government departments make industrial policies.

Originality/value

This paper aims to fill the gap in the literature by providing the first systematic research of the impact of large‐scale collaboration network structure on firm innovation in China, and exploring the implications for firms to develop alliance activities and for relevant government departments to make industrial policies. This paper adds new evidence to the topic that alliance network is an important mechanism of knowledge spillover in China.

Details

Journal of Science and Technology Policy in China, vol. 4 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1758-552X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 March 2017

Murat Atalay, Onur Dirlik and Fulya Sarvan

The purpose of this study is to explore the configuration of network ties that would have a positive impact on performance outcomes and test the presumed impact of multilevel…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the configuration of network ties that would have a positive impact on performance outcomes and test the presumed impact of multilevel strategic alliances on innovation and firm performance in a specific industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This study comprises part of a larger project on the network relations of yacht-building firms operating in Turkey. Data of the study was collected through face-to-face interviews and questionnaires with 143 yacht-building firms operating in major yacht-building regions of the country.

Findings

The findings of the study indicated the presence of meaningful relationship between total number of (strong) network relations perceived as strategic alliance and overall innovation performance. The generally presumed positive relationship between innovation performance and firm performance was supported. The type of innovation performance that was found to be related to the total number of network ties perceived as strategic alliance at national and global levels was product innovation performance.

Practical implications

A possible contribution of this study for industry members would be the implications of the finding that indicates positive impact of strategic alliances with different actors of the industry.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the exploration of network configurations that have a positive impact on innovation and firm performance, by dealing with the impact of the size, strength and geographical level of network relations in one single study. The yacht-building industry as the empirical setting represents a specific category of industry that rests on customized individual or small-batch manufacturing requiring considerable interaction with customers and suppliers. Because no study exists on this topic, findings can inspire similar industries.

Details

International Journal of Innovation Science, vol. 9 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1757-2223

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 26 July 2019

Fangwei Zhu, Mengtong Jiang and Miao Yu

The challenge of unforeseen uncertainties in exploratory projects requires the lead firm in a project alliance to effectively manage exploratory co-innovation. The purpose of this…

Abstract

Purpose

The challenge of unforeseen uncertainties in exploratory projects requires the lead firm in a project alliance to effectively manage exploratory co-innovation. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the types of capabilities a lead firm required in exploratory projects and how these capabilities enable the exploratory innovation of the project alliance.

Design/methodology/approach

A multiple-case study was done to provide empirical evidence for the rationale of the capabilities of the lead firm. The provided analysis used abductive reasoning of two typical exploratory projects in China.

Findings

This paper identifies two types of capabilities: innovation-related capabilities and network-related capabilities. Furthermore, a process model of the capabilities of the lead firm is developed that enables exploratory co-innovation in a project alliance. The capabilities of the lead firm input varied at four different stages.

Practical implications

Innovation-related capabilities and network-related capabilities could form the foundation for the lead firm in an exploratory project alliance. This will enable an exploratory co-innovation and collaboratively overcome the barriers of exploratory projects.

Originality/value

Although exploratory project attracts extensive attention for its unique characteristics and universal value, there is limited amount of research on the context of joint exploratory projects. This study starts from the role of lead firm in an exploratory project alliance, contributes toward the comprehension of the link between the lead firm’s capabilities and the process of exploratory co-innovation. The findings will be of value in supporting the management of exploratory innovation in a project alliance.

Details

International Journal of Managing Projects in Business, vol. 13 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1753-8378

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 21 October 2020

Guiyang Zhang and Chaoying Tang

The purpose of the paper is to advance a framework that can analyze the impact of the egocentric alliance network on firm ambidextrous innovation holistically. On this purpose…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to advance a framework that can analyze the impact of the egocentric alliance network on firm ambidextrous innovation holistically. On this purpose, the framework involves and integrates structural holes (SH), alliance functional diversity (AFD) and alliance partner geographical diversity (APGD) that measure network characteristics from structural, relational and nodal perspectives, respectively.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collected multi-source matching panel data including alliance deals, technical patents and financial information during 2000–2017 of the 106 top high-tech firms in the computer, communications, electronics and biopharmaceutical industries and conducted a three-way interaction model to uncover the complex mechanisms from a contingency perspective.

Findings

Empirical results show that SH as structural capital is positive to both exploitative and exploratory innovation. Both AFD as relational capital and APGD as cognitive capital positively moderate the SH-exploitative innovation nexus rather than the SH-exploratory innovation nexus. APGD and AFD co-moderate the relationship between SH and firm ambidextrous innovation in the way that when APGD and AFD are both high, SH has the strongest positive impacts on firm exploitative and exploratory innovation.

Originality/value

This research provides new insights into the benefit-cost paradox of the structural brokerage position (SH) by uncovering relational (AFD) and nodal (APGD) network characteristics that impact the trade-off. Also, it contributes to social capital theory by differentiating three dimensions of network capital (structural, relational and cognitive capital) and integrating them into ambidextrous innovation research. Finally, the findings give firms enlightenment to configure their egocentric alliance network for innovation ambidexterity.

Details

European Journal of Innovation Management, vol. 25 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1460-1060

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 July 2012

Runhui Lin, Hongjuan Zhang, Jianhong Fan and Rujing Hou

This paper seeks to explore the evolution of a third generation mobile communications (3G) industry based on TD‐SCDMA technical standard in China through the lens of network

Abstract

Purpose

This paper seeks to explore the evolution of a third generation mobile communications (3G) industry based on TD‐SCDMA technical standard in China through the lens of network analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors argue that inter‐firm alliances help companies gain and integrate internal and external resources and foster technical innovation. The paper analyzes alliance governance structures and governance mechanisms in particular, and shows how they protect and improve network‐based innovation capabilities and competitive advantages during a ten‐year period with the method of social network analysis and case studies.

Findings

The authors offer a theoretical model that incorporates cooperation among organizations, the maturity of the industrial chain, and the accumulation of organizational knowledge and social capital.

Originality/value

The paper offers a theoretical model of factors that contributes greatly to the development of technical innovation.

Details

Journal of Asia Business Studies, vol. 6 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1558-7894

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 25 July 2008

Ravi Madhavan, Turanay Caner, John Prescott and Balaji Koka

In the network strategy view, relative competitive advantage stems not merely from opportunity structures embedded in networks but also from the distribution of ability and…

Abstract

In the network strategy view, relative competitive advantage stems not merely from opportunity structures embedded in networks but also from the distribution of ability and motivation among firms. Thus, there is a need to “bring the firm back in” to the network strategy narrative. We demonstrate that a mixed-methods design, blending large-sample data with micro-data on specific firms and their networks, can increase our understanding of the interplay of network structure and actor mechanisms, thus bridging the chasm between theory and practice in network strategy. We believe this is a critical step toward the “strategic design of networks.”

Details

Network Strategy
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-0-7623-1442-3

Article
Publication date: 6 April 2023

Xinsheng Cheng, Yingjie Xu and Fengshu Li

This study had a threefold aim: to examine the impact of a Simmelian-tie tripartite alliance on corporate green innovation; to determine the chain-mediating roles of knowledge…

Abstract

Purpose

This study had a threefold aim: to examine the impact of a Simmelian-tie tripartite alliance on corporate green innovation; to determine the chain-mediating roles of knowledge acquisition and knowledge integration; and to identify the moderating effect of network routines on the relationship between a Simmelian tie and green innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through 487 valid survey questionnaires from Chinese small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises (SMEs). The authors examined the data through a structural model using partial least-squares structural-equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to test the research hypotheses.

Findings

The results reveal several key factors with positive impacts on enterprise green innovation. Specifically, a Simmelian tie significantly and positively affects enterprise green innovation. The results further reveal that knowledge acquisition and integration play mediating roles, while a network routine positively moderates the relationships among a Simmelian tie, knowledge acquisition and integration, and corporate green innovation.

Originality/value

This study is among the earliest empirical studies to investigate the influence of Simmelian ties on corporate green innovation for manufacturing companies. This study provides a theoretical basis for managers of firms, especially those of SMEs with limited resources, to fully use Simmelian ties to achieve environmentally sustainable innovation. In addition, this study validates and extends knowledge-management theory by verifying the linking roles of knowledge acquisition and integration and facilitating role of network routines.

Details

European Journal of Innovation Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1460-1060

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 21 November 2022

Yan Zhao, Niannian Qi, Luying Li, Zheng Li, Xiao Han and Ling Xuan

Facing the global public health emergency (GPHE), the conflict of cultural differences and the imbalance of vital resources such as knowledge among different organizations are…

Abstract

Purpose

Facing the global public health emergency (GPHE), the conflict of cultural differences and the imbalance of vital resources such as knowledge among different organizations are becoming more severe, which affects the enthusiasm and sustainability of firms' innovation heavily. It is an urgent problem to be solved for firms how to make use of internal knowledge and external power to help firms' sustainable innovation (FSI). Thus, the purpose of this study is to deeply analyze how firms' internal knowledge diversity (KD) and external ego-network structures [ego-network density (ED) and honest brokers (HB)] affect FSI, as well as how the ego-network structures (ED and HB) moderate the relationship between KD and FSI based on the perspective of the ego network.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the data of the alliance innovation networks of China's new energy industries in 2009–2019, this study uses the social network analysis method and negative binomial regression model to explore the effect of KD and ego-network structures (ED and HB) on FSI, as well as the moderating effects of ego-network structures (ED and HB) on the relationship between KD and FSI based on the perspective of ego network.

Findings

This study finds that KD, ED and HB can boost FSI. Moreover, ED plays a negative moderating role in the relationship between KD and FSI. However, the negative moderating effect of HB on the relationship between KD and FSI is not significant.

Research limitations/implications

This study presents fresh empirical evidence and new insights for firms on how to make full use of firms' internal KD and external ego-network structures to facilitate FSI.

Originality/value

First, this study not only enriches the research on the consequences of KD but also expands our understanding of the knowledge-based view to some extent. Second, this study not only enriches the motivation research of the FSI based on the perspective of ego-network in the context of the GPHE but also expands the application scope of social network theory and sustainable innovation' theory in part. Third, this paper is a new attempt to apply social network theory and knowledge-based view at the same time.

Article
Publication date: 14 September 2022

Mariana Namen Jatobá, Mário Franco and Margarida Rodrigues

The formation of alliances between organisations is increasingly common, allowing firms to discover and ensure competitive advantages. This research paper aims to make a critical…

Abstract

Purpose

The formation of alliances between organisations is increasingly common, allowing firms to discover and ensure competitive advantages. This research paper aims to make a critical analysis of studies to understand the role of communication between partners in the process of strategic alliances.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review was carried out, using the Web of Science database to obtain data, associating the terms “communication” and “strategic alliances”, which resulted in 240 scientific articles (published between 1993 and March 2021). After data treatment using VOSviewer software and reading of the contents, the final sample consisted of 179 articles on the subject in question.

Findings

The conceptual limits, exploratory descriptive analysis of the data and content analysis of research methods are presented, with five clusters being identified. The results show growing academic interest in studying communication associated with strategic alliances, and authors’ main interest lies in understanding the critical success factors and the relation between communication and knowledge.

Practical implications

This study corroborates understanding of the future of alliances, assuming that learning is the main objective; trust is the factor determining success or failure; technology is the aggregating tool; culture affects the relation; and communication is not an end but a means to construct consolidated, long-lasting and high-performing strategic alliances.

Originality/value

This study is innovative in strategic alliances area. The research confirms that the main factor in forming alliances, in both emerging and international markets, is the learning intention. This fact reinforces the relevance of the learning made possible by this transfer of know-how through communication. In addition, this study gives critical understanding of how the process of communication between partners in an alliance must be distinct; i.e. it must be flexible enough to adjust to the stage in the alliance’s life cycle.

Details

Journal of Business & Industrial Marketing, vol. 38 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0885-8624

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 June 2009

Alan B. Eisner, Noushi Rahman and Helaine J. Korn

This paper aims to focus on formation motivations and processes of R&D consortia to appreciate their differential innovative and learning capabilities.

1585

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to focus on formation motivations and processes of R&D consortia to appreciate their differential innovative and learning capabilities.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents its argument in two separate steps. First, a two‐by‐two framework, comprising four consortium types, is developed based on two formation motivations (i.e. risk sharing and networking) and two formation processes (i.e. emergent and engineered). Four case vignettes are used to demonstrate the practical relevance of the two‐by‐two consortium typology framework. Second, the innovative and learning capabilities of each of these consortia are explored and eight propositions are advanced.

Findings

The paper introduces four types of consortia: community builders, gamblers, visible hands, and opportunists. It is argued that visible hands generate greater innovation than community builders and opportunists, and community builders and opportunists generate greater innovation than gamblers. It is also argued that government involvement moderates the relationship between consortia type and innovative capabilities in an inverted U shape. Lastly, relative appropriateness of frequency, outcome, and trait imitations to facilitate organization‐level learning among consortium members is explored.

Originality/value

The main contribution of this paper lies in its two‐by‐two typology of consortium formation contextual conditions. Instead of focusing on evolutionary cycles and performance issues of consortia, this paper draws research attention to contextual conditions surrounding consortia formation. Consortium formation contextual conditions are critically important because they predetermine the life cycle and performance trajectory of consortia. This paper also links innovation and learning dynamics in consortia.

Details

Management Decision, vol. 47 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0025-1747

Keywords

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