Title: The idea innovation network model: the case of the INDI-Saúde network in Brazil

Authors: Leandro R.C. Bonfim; Sandro A. Gonçalves; Andréa P. Segatto; Márcio Jacometti

Addresses: School of Management, Federal University of Paraná, Av. Pref. Lothário Meissner, 632, 2nd floor, Jardim Botânico, Curitiba, Brazil ' Brazilian Institute for Social Studies and Research (IBEPES), St. Waldemar Loureiro Campos, 3885 – EC 23, Curitiba, Brazil ' School of Management, Federal University of Paraná, Av. Pref. Lothário Meissner, 632, 2nd floor, Jardim Botânico Curitiba, Brazil ' Technological Federal University of Paraná, Av. Alberto Carazzai, 1640, Director's Office, Cornélio Procópio, Brazil

Abstract: The purpose of this article is to study how a successful idea innovation network in the field of molecular diagnosis for public health in Brazil was structured in six functional research arenas. We also aim to operationalise it by analysing its shape and connectedness based upon a qualitative case study supported by social network analysis of documentary and archival data. Our evidence suggests that the idea innovation network model was predictive of innovation and technological development, presenting connectedness within and between arenas. We extend the model by finding that the structure of relationship within arenas is not the same as of between arenas, with the former being composed of stronger ties and closer networks, and the latter formed by sparser networks of relationships connected by network bridges. We also contribute by showing three different stages of development of the functional research areas: consolidated, advanced development stage, and preliminary development stage.

Keywords: research arenas; technological development; innovation; innovation networks; public health.

DOI: 10.1504/IJBIR.2020.110104

International Journal of Business Innovation and Research, 2020 Vol.23 No.2, pp.250 - 266

Received: 18 Feb 2019
Accepted: 09 May 2019
Published online: 06 Oct 2020 *

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