Title: Generation of weak ties in a growing network: network analysis of co-inventor relationships

Authors: Satomi Takagi, Ryoko Toyama

Addresses: Graduate School of Knowledge Science, Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, 1-1, Asahidai, Nomishi, Ishikawa, Japan. ' Graduate School of Strategic Management, Chuo University, 1-13-17, Kasuga, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan

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.

Keywords: knowledge creation; weak ties; communication networks; network analysis; knowledge; learning; co-inventor relationships; innovative knowledge; innovation; patents.

DOI: 10.1504/IJKL.2009.024544

International Journal of Knowledge and Learning, 2009 Vol.5 No.1, pp.26 - 36

Published online: 09 Apr 2009 *

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