Configuration of Innovation Networks: A Conceptual Framework

Scholarly interest in the phenomenon of innovation networks is rising along with rapid growth in the use of such networks in the business world. However, the literature is very fragmented and no clear theory exists to explain and examine innovation networks. In this paper, we develop a conceptual framework by providing a clear conceptual definition, by discussing boundary conditions, and by proposing a typology that helps to understand the variety of innovation network configurations. Our typology consists of two axes: the nature of opportunities pursued (cognitively proximate or distant) and the innovation network focus (innovation generation or innovation appropriation). We discuss how resources, actors, relationships, and activities are configured in different types of innovation networks and how the configuration changes as the networks evolve over time. Our paper provides a much needed conceptual clarity and offers a strong basis for future research on the important phenomenon of innovation networks.