How network characteristics drive multi-layer innovation networks to achieve boundary-spanning convergence

IF 12.5 1区社会学 Q1 SOCIAL ISSUES

Technology in Society Pub Date : 2025-09-08 DOI:10.1016/j.techsoc.2025.103048

Yonghong Ma, Enjia Zhu

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Cross-domain knowledge integration and boundary-spanning collaboration among firms are increasingly recognized as key characteristics of vigorous development within the renewable energy sector. This paper, utilizing cooperative patent data from the new energy industry, employs Social Network Analysis (SNA) to analyze the evolutionary characteristics of multi-layer innovation networks and applies the Multilayer Exponential Random Graph Model (MERGM) to examine the driving effects of network characteristics on the boundary-spanning convergence of these innovation networks. The study's results indicate that closed triadic structures promote boundary-spanning convergence within innovation networks. Furthermore, knowledge diversity and heterogeneity facilitate boundary-spanning convergence in collaboration networks. The breadth of inter-firm cooperation also enhances boundary-spanning convergence in knowledge networks; however, the intensity of inter-firm cooperation does not necessarily promote boundary-spanning convergence in knowledge networks. This research broadens the perspective on multi-layer innovation networks and provides practical insights for fostering technological innovation and collaboration in the new energy industry.

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网络特性如何驱动多层创新网络实现跨界融合

企业之间的跨领域知识整合和跨边界合作日益被认为是可再生能源领域蓬勃发展的关键特征。本文利用来自新能源产业的合作专利数据，采用社会网络分析（SNA）分析了多层创新网络的演化特征，并运用多层指数随机图模型（MERGM）研究了网络特征对创新网络跨界收敛的驱动效应。研究结果表明，封闭的三元结构促进了创新网络内部的跨界收敛。此外，知识的多样性和异质性促进了协作网络的跨边界收敛。企业间合作的广度也增强了知识网络的跨界收敛；然而，企业间合作的强度并不一定会促进知识网络的跨界收敛。本研究拓宽了多层创新网络的视角，为促进新能源产业的技术创新与协作提供了实践见解。

本文章由计算机程序翻译，如有差异，请以英文原文为准。

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来源期刊

Technology in Society Multiple-

CiteScore

17.90

自引率

14.10%

发文量

316

审稿时长

60 days

期刊介绍： Technology in Society is a global journal dedicated to fostering discourse at the crossroads of technological change and the social, economic, business, and philosophical transformation of our world. The journal aims to provide scholarly contributions that empower decision-makers to thoughtfully and intentionally navigate the decisions shaping this dynamic landscape. A common thread across these fields is the role of technology in society, influencing economic, political, and cultural dynamics. Scholarly work in Technology in Society delves into the social forces shaping technological decisions and the societal choices regarding technology use. This encompasses scholarly and theoretical approaches (history and philosophy of science and technology, technology forecasting, economic growth, and policy, ethics), applied approaches (business innovation, technology management, legal and engineering), and developmental perspectives (technology transfer, technology assessment, and economic development). Detailed information about the journal's aims and scope on specific topics can be found in Technology in Society Briefings, accessible via our Special Issues and Article Collections.