Title: The ''parallel bridge'' and its relevance to biotechnology new ventures

Authors: Michael Bodner, Ross Barnard

Addresses: Schering-Plough, 11 Gibbon Road, Baulkham Hills, NSW 2153, Australia. ' Biotechnology Program & School of Molecular and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Biological & Chemical Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane Qld 4072, Australia

Abstract: A firm|s competitive strategy and innovation processes are strongly influenced by, and must be responsive to, its competitive environment. This is nowhere more strongly evident than in the high technology industries. In the present work, case studies of biotechnology new ventures are presented. These studies illustrate how an initial market entry strategy of parallel competition (through creative imitation) has enabled several biotechnology start-ups to reduce their mortality risk. We coin the term ||parallel bridge|| to describe this strategy. The parallel bridge provides early cash flows which support research and development and provide time for new ventures to develop core competencies, including a capacity to produce second and third horizon products that will sustain longer term competitiveness.

Keywords: biotechnology start-ups; new venture strategy; mortality risk reduction; parallel bridge.

DOI: 10.1504/IJBT.2004.004810

International Journal of Biotechnology, 2004 Vol.6 No.2/3, pp.202 - 218

Published online: 07 Jul 2004 *

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