'Clusters' of innovations in recent long span and multi-segmental bridges

The system-level impacts of innovations often can be more significant than the direct, primary impacts in certain industries. In particular, these system interactions can be seen with large, complex multi-system constructed facilities. Approximately half of the 200 specific innovations identified in eleven recent long span and multi-segmental bridges are linked to other innovations. Three general types of 'cluster' interaction are system, actualizing, and complementary links. The system interactions are nurtured through coordinated innovation development programmes. The actualizing links connect one set of innovations to another set, to aid in their realization of the innovation and project objectives. The complementary links provide additional benefits through the joint use of multiple innovations. The results of these analyses provide significant new insight for innovation theory into the system-level interactions of innovations. Since the frequency of the linkages among the innovations appears to reflect the relative stability of the design and construction parameters, recent innovation trajectories may be more difficult to link effectively to other innovations. These innovation interactions can provide critical capabilities for achieving the project objectives, but must be identified and managed effectively to achieve desired performance levels.