Network dynamics and its impact on innovation outcomes

R&D consortia in the Dutch water sector

Journal article (2023)

Authors

Remco S. Mannak Tilburg University
Arjan Markus Eindhoven University of Technology
Marius T.H. Meeus Tilburg University
Jörg Raab Tilburg University
A.C. Smit Economics of Technology and Innovation - TPM , Values Technology and Innovation
Research Group
Economics of Technology and Innovation (TPM) (TU Delft)
Copyright: © 2023 Remco S. Mannak, Arjan Markus, Marius T.H. Meeus, Jörg Raab, A.C. Smit
DOI
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https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socnet.2023.02.004
Innovation Network dynamics Network structure Node turnover R&D consortia
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Published Date

2023

Language

English

Faculty

Technology, Policy and Management

Department

Values Technology and Innovation

Research Group

Economics of Technology and Innovation

Abstract

In this study, we explore the relationship between inter-organizational network dynamics and innovation outcomes. We focus on node turnover and argue that both cluster and broker dynamics can range from low (stable) to high (volatile), resulting in differentiated outcomes. The data comprises 318 consortium members participating in 104 R&D consortia forged in a 23-year period in the Dutch water sector. Our analysis reveals two equifinal combinations (stable brokers – volatile clusters and volatile brokers – stable clusters) that both generate significantly higher innovation outcomes compared to networks with low, moderate, or high dynamics across the entire network.