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Revealing dynamics and consequences of fit and misfit between formal and informal networks in multi-institutional product development collaborations

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  • Kratzer, J.
  • Gemuenden, Hans G.
  • Lettl, Christopher

Abstract

The study presents a longitudinal examination about dynamics and consequences of fit and misfit between formally ascribed design interfaces and informal communication networks in two large multi-institutional product development collaborations in space industry. Findings: (1) formally ascribed design interfaces and informal communication networks correlate only marginally. The main reason is that informal communication is much more dense than ascribed; (2) although the formally ascribed design interfaces change, the structure of informal communication remains largely stable throughout time; (3) the most intriguing finding is that this communicational misfit is associated with higher effectiveness, but, it negatively impacts the institutional unit's efficiency.

Suggested Citation

  • Kratzer, J. & Gemuenden, Hans G. & Lettl, Christopher, 2008. "Revealing dynamics and consequences of fit and misfit between formal and informal networks in multi-institutional product development collaborations," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 37(8), pages 1356-1370, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:respol:v:37:y:2008:i:8:p:1356-1370
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    Cited by:

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    2. Ekboir, Javier & Blundo Canto, Genowefa & Sette, Cristina, 2017. "Knowing what research organizations actually do, with whom, where, how and for what purpose: Monitoring research portfolios and collaborations," Evaluation and Program Planning, Elsevier, vol. 61(C), pages 64-75.
    3. Sharique Hasan & Rembrand Koning, 2020. "Designing social networks: joint tasks and the formation and endurance of network ties," Journal of Organization Design, Springer;Organizational Design Community, vol. 9(1), pages 1-19, December.
    4. Huber, Franz, 2013. "Knowledge-sourcing of R&D workers in different job positions: Contextualising external personal knowledge networks," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 42(1), pages 167-179.
    5. Yamakawa, Yasuhiro & Yang, Haibin & Lin, Zhiang (John), 2011. "Exploration versus exploitation in alliance portfolio: Performance implications of organizational, strategic, and environmental fit," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 40(2), pages 287-296, March.
    6. Brennecke, Julia & Sofka, Wolfgang & Wang, Peng & Rank, Olaf N., 2021. "How the organizational design of R&D units affects individual search intensity – A network study," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 50(5).
    7. Ozer, Muammer, 2009. "The roles of product lead-users and product experts in new product evaluation," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 38(8), pages 1340-1349, October.

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