Innovative Affinity Spaces and Their Influence on Network Leadership in Open Innovation: a Dynamic Network Analysis of the Case of China

Abstract

The intention in this paper is to present a conceptual framework developed as an evolution of the ‘innovation communities’ concept, called ‘Innovative Affinity Spaces’. This new construct is applied in the context of Chinese firms to explore how it affects network leadership in open innovation projects. Using dynamic network analysis as the methodological tool, the research hypotheses were addressed through cross-checking data from a sample of 68 Chinese networks of companies and research institutions.  Our study yields important conclusions on the notion of network competencies/capabilities as critical elements towards successful network leadership acting within innovative affinity spaces.

Keywords: Innovation networks, Network leadership, Network capabilities, Open innovation, Affinity spaces, Dynamic network analysis, China