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Self-reinforcing Mechanisms in a Multi-technology Industry: Understanding Sustained Technological Variety in a Context of Path Dependency

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  • Ksenia Onufrey
  • Anna Bergek

Abstract

This paper studies self-reinforcing mechanisms in multi-technology industries, i.e. industries in which technological lock-in does not occur and several technologies continue to coexist. The purpose of this paper is to investigate what kind of self-reinforcing mechanisms can be present in such industries and explain how multiple paths can coexist and interact in a context of self-reinforcement and, ultimately, path dependency. Building on the empirical example of the lighting industry, the paper shows that all previously recognized types of self-reinforcing mechanisms can be present in a multi-technology industry. However, in addition to the path-internal positive feedbacks and cross-path negative externalities identified in single-path settings, multi-technology industries also experience positive cross-path externalities that create a symbiotic relationship between alternatives and allow for the reproduction of the same development pattern across technologies. Due to the existence of such non-negative technology interactions, multi-technology industries can be path dependent while still retaining technological variety.

Suggested Citation

  • Ksenia Onufrey & Anna Bergek, 2015. "Self-reinforcing Mechanisms in a Multi-technology Industry: Understanding Sustained Technological Variety in a Context of Path Dependency," Industry and Innovation, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 22(6), pages 523-551, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:indinn:v:22:y:2015:i:6:p:523-551
    DOI: 10.1080/13662716.2015.1100532
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Y. Iwafune, 2000. "Technology Progress Dynamics of Compact Fluorescent Lamps," Working Papers ir00009, International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis.
    2. Felicia M. Fai, 2003. "Corporate Technological Competence and the Evolution of Technological Diversification," Books, Edward Elgar Publishing, number 2065.
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    Cited by:

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    5. Mäkitie, Tuukka & Hanson, Jens & Steen, Markus & Hansen, Teis & Andersen, Allan Dahl, 2022. "Complementarity formation mechanisms in technology value chains," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 51(7).

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