Network dynamics and its impact on innovation outcomes

R&D consortia in the Dutch water sector

Journal Article (2023)
Author(s)

Remco S. Mannak (Tilburg University)

Arjan Markus (Eindhoven University of Technology)

Marius T.H. Meeus (Tilburg University)

Jörg Raab (Tilburg University)

Alexander Smit (TU Delft - Values Technology and Innovation, TU Delft - Economics of Technology and Innovation)

Research Group
Economics of Technology and Innovation
Copyright
© 2023 Remco S. Mannak, Arjan Markus, Marius T.H. Meeus, Jörg Raab, A.C. Smit
DOI related publication
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socnet.2023.02.004
More Info
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Publication Year
2023
Language
English
Copyright
© 2023 Remco S. Mannak, Arjan Markus, Marius T.H. Meeus, Jörg Raab, A.C. Smit
Research Group
Economics of Technology and Innovation
Volume number
74
Pages (from-to)
62-70
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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.