The duality of connectivity: how the connectivity of collaborative networks shapes disruptive innovation
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47989/ir31iConf64132Keywords:
Disruptive innovation, Scientific collaboration, Network analysisAbstract
Introduction. This study first reveals the nonlinear impact mechanism of algebraic connectivity in scientific collaboration networks on disruptive innovation, offering a novel perspective for understanding the boundary effects of knowledge flow and the emergence of innovation.
Method. Using academic papers in the field of computer science as empirical samples, we first quantify the degree of disruptive innovation in scientific papers using CD-index. Then, we employ the Louvain algorithm to identify the specific weighted collaboration network embedded by scientists and calculate its algebraic connectivity. A two-way fixed effects model is employed, with the quadratic term of algebraic connectivity introduced to test the nonlinear impact mechanism.
Results. A significant ‘inverted U-shaped’ relationship is found between the algebraic connectivity of scientific collaboration networks and disruptive innovation, with a inflection point at 0.174. Moderate levels of connectivity facilitate the integration of global knowledge, thereby promoting disruptive innovation. Both excessively high and low levels of connectivity suppress breakthroughs in disruptive innovation. Moderating effect reveals that higher knowledge density accelerates the marginal benefits of connectivity, allowing the network to form an innovation advantage at relatively low connectivity levels.
Conclusion. The emergence of disruptive innovation requires an emphasis on seeking structural balance between knowledge integration and cognitive diversity.
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