The Value of Weak vs. Strong Ties between Individuals and Projects for New Product Review

Abstract

This study extends the concept of weak and strong ties to the relationship between an individual and a project, in the context of a formal review process. Using data collected from a project at a research and development laboratory, several hypotheses relating the utility of feedback from reviewers to differing strengths of ties to the project are tested. Results indicate that (1) the value of feedback from stronger ties is higher than from weaker ties; (2) weaker ties generate more unique input; and (3) weaker ties generate a greater amount of non-useful feedback. Implications for practice and future research are discussed.