SME dependence and coordination in innovation networks
Journal of Small Business and Enterprise Development
ISSN: 1462-6004
Article publication date: 11 May 2012
Abstract
Purpose
The objective of this research is to identify and characterize the coordination systems used by SME hub firms that are in a situation of dependence with respect to other members of their network, taking into account the influence of hub firm size.
Design/methodology/approach
Seven case studies were carried out: six innovation networks in which SMEs play a central role are compared with a “reference” case, in which the hub firm is a large company.
Findings
The authors' qualitative empirical analysis of seven innovation projects showed that: the sharing of benefits and the guarantees that are implemented vary depending on the hub firm's degree of dependence; trust and recourse to formal agreements differ according to hub firm size; and conflict solving is influenced by both hub firm size and degree of dependence.
Practical implications
Results have important implications for the management of innovation networks which are increasingly important for the development of SMEs. The knowledge of the adequate coordination mechanism is central for a SME hub firm and the success of the innovation project.
Originality/value
Investigations into the internal operation of inter‐organizational networks have become increasingly common. Nevertheless, empirical studies are still rare, particularly in the field of innovation networks and even more in the case of networks set up by small firms. This article partially fills this gap.
Keywords
Citation
Gardet, E. and Mothe, C. (2012), "SME dependence and coordination in innovation networks", Journal of Small Business and Enterprise Development, Vol. 19 No. 2, pp. 263-280. https://doi.org/10.1108/14626001211223892
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2012, Emerald Group Publishing Limited