Dynamics of a technological innovator network and its impact on technological performance

Abstract

This paper examines the dynamics of a technological innovator network (TIN) of a state-owned textile company in underdeveloped southwest China. It addresses two research questions: how the structure of the TIN evolved in the past 10 years; and what impact it had on the technological performance of the firm. The case study reveals that the general structure of the TIN and the positioning of the actors influence not only the amount of technological innovations but also the predominant type (product versus process innovations). TINs that are adequate for process innovation may not be as efficient for product innovation.

Keywords:

• Technological innovator network
• technological innovation performance
• product and process innovation
• network structure
• network dynamics
• China