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Information Technology and the Dynamics of Joint Innovation

Author

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  • Cowan, Robin
  • Jonard, Nicolas

    (MERIT)

Abstract

We develop a model of an innovative industry to examine how information technology, by both enhancing matching efficiency and knowledge sharing, can have an ambiguous effect on the total amount of innovation. We consider a population of firms holding different knowledge expertise, and forming partnerships to conduct joint R&D. We assume that bringing together different expertise has positive value for innovating but also that joint innovation implies a partial convergence of the partners'' expertise. We study how the distribution of firms changes and thus how the innovative potential of the economy evolves. We show that as heterogeneity is used as an input by the innovative process, the industry must eventually collapse to a unique expertise, but how fast this takes place depends on the quality of IT. As a result of falling dispersion, a tension arises between static and dynamic efficiency. JEL Classification Numbers: C78,O33,O38.

Suggested Citation

  • Cowan, Robin & Jonard, Nicolas, 2004. "Information Technology and the Dynamics of Joint Innovation," Research Memorandum 014, Maastricht University, Maastricht Economic Research Institute on Innovation and Technology (MERIT).
    • Handle: RePEc:unm:umamer:2004014
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    mathematical economics and econometrics ;

    JEL classification:

    • C78 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Game Theory and Bargaining Theory - - - Bargaining Theory; Matching Theory
    • O33 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences; Diffusion Processes
    • O38 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Government Policy

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