The synergetic relationship between core technology and complementary assets in innovation capability evolution

Science Research Management ›› 2014, Vol. 35 ›› Issue (11) : 51-59.

Zhang Suping¹, Xu Qingrui², Zhang Jun³

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Abstract

Most researches focus on the role of core technology in the development of innovation capability, neglecting the role of complementary assets which are the essential elements for the commercialization of innovation. In this paper, by drawing on the evolutionary theory and resource-based view, the core technologies and complementary assets are integrated into a research framework to explore the evolutionary process of innovation capability through a longitudinal case study on Zhongxing Telecommunications Equipment Corporation. Then it is found out that: (1) the cultivation of complementary assets is always in advance of the development of core technologies. The relationship between core technologies and complementary assets demonstrates the characteristics of matching each other and co-evolution. (2) With the enterprise's development, the synergy between core technologies and complementary assets can promote the development of innovation capability which demonstrates two major patterns including the extension of existing core technology with complementary assets and the involvement of new core technology.

Key words

innovation capability / core technology / complementary assets / synergy

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Zhang Suping, Xu Qingrui, Zhang Jun. The synergetic relationship between core technology and complementary assets in innovation capability evolution[J]. Science Research Management. 2014, 35(11): 51-59

References

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