Generation of weak ties in a growing network: network analysis of co-inventor relationships
by Satomi Takagi, Ryoko Toyama
International Journal of Knowledge and Learning (IJKL), Vol. 5, No. 1, 2009

Abstract: In the theory of knowledge creation, it has become evident that the relationships within an organisation that enable mutual exchange among people with varying perspectives and the presence of weak ties are important to create innovative knowledge beyond the existing knowledge of the organisation. Based on patent data, this study analysed a network of co-inventor relationships to clarify changes in the roles of central persons in the network and examine the generation of weak ties. The results showed that the central persons in the divisional network are also at the centre of a network connecting them outside of their division, suggesting that they are generating and/or maintaining weak ties.

Online publication date: Thu, 09-Apr-2009

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