Bussracumpakorn, Chokeanand. 2006. Design Innovation Networks: Critical factors that can contribute to successful collaborative development of innovative products. Doctoral thesis, Goldsmiths, University of London [Thesis]

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Abstract or Description

My study starts from the assumption that, in the post-industrial economy, organisations are surrounded by increasing complexities in their external environment. The dynamic and unpredictable conditions of external environments cause internal instabilities which force organisations to find a survival strategy. Many studies suggest that the development of innovative products is an important strategy in this economy. However, it is a very high risk activity. To develop innovative products, many organisations, in particular small and medium-sized businesses, experience two main problems: (i) high, fixed costs and uncertainties during the product development process and (ii) the limitations of their in-house resources and knowledge. Based on the tensions between the dynamic changes and unpredictability of external economic and market conditions, and the problems and limitations of product development within organisations, my study suggests that organisation networks are helpful for the development of innovative products.

My study comprises two stages. First, it investigates both theoretical and empirical studies related to the concept of networks in different areas: philosophy, biology, system theory and socioeconomics. Based on the analysis of these studies, it suggests that collaborative networks of multidisciplinary organisations are helpful in the development of innovative products in the post­industrial economy. Secondly, my study focuses on the examination of key factors, the effects of each factor, and the level of mutuality of these factors within successful collaborative networks. Four successful collaborative networks created for the development of innovative products within the UK during 1997- 2003 are qualitatively examined. The main research focus concerns the structural relations between the collaborative organisations, particularly the interactions between the main points of contact.

The research findings suggest sixteen key factors, and nine out of them emerge to be dominant: (1) mutual trust, (2) equal valuing of working role, (3) clear agreement of the collaborative benefits, ( 4) an effective communication protocol, (5) flexible collaborative product development, (6) open information sharing, (7) mutual understanding between the parties, (8) commitment at all levels, and (9) innovation culture of each organisation.

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Identification Number (DOI):	https://doi.org/10.25602/GOLD.00028715
Keywords:	collaborative networks, multidisciplinary organisations, innovative products, post­industrial economy
Departments, Centres and Research Units:	Design
Date:	2006
Item ID:	28715
Date Deposited:	08 Jun 2020 10:06
Last Modified:	08 Sep 2022 15:43
URI:	https://research.gold.ac.uk/id/eprint/28715

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