Title: Establishing and managing an innovation network: the case of NTT DoCoMo

Authors: Krzysztof Klincewicz

Addresses: School of Management, University of Warsaw, ul. Szturmowa 3, 02-678 Warsaw, Poland

Abstract: The paper discusses the role of technology companies in establishing private-sector innovation networks and generating new knowledge through partners. The case study of Japan|s leading mobile phone operator NTT DoCoMo offers an opportunity to analyse the benefits of |semi-walled garden| approach (involving technological openness for all parties but preference for trusted partners) and |plural governance| (with constant competition between affiliated and independent partners), stimulating innovativeness of the partner network. It presents challenges that technology companies face when trying to keep the partners at the same time loyal and innovative, as trust and reliance on partners are likely to decrease the network|s innovativeness, while competition may erode trust and discourage partners.

Keywords: innovation networks; knowledge creation; strategic alliances; ICT industry; governance; mobile communications; case study; qualitative research; Japan; NTT DoCoMo; high tech companies; high technology; telecommunications; partner networks.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEIM.2009.023847

International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management, 2009 Vol.9 No.1/2, pp.104 - 117

Published online: 16 Mar 2009 *

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