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The impact of network structure on knowledge transfer: an application of social network analysis in the context of regional innovation networks

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Abstract

We analyze information and knowledge transfer in a sample of 16 German regional innovation networks with almost 300 firms and research organizations involved. The results indicate that strong ties are more beneficial for the exchange of knowledge and information than weak ties. Moreover, our results suggest that broker positions tend to be associated with social returns rather than with private benefits.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Friedrich Schiller University Jena, German Institute for Economic Research (DIW-Berlin) and Max Planck Institute of Economics, Jena, Germany

    Michael Fritsch

  2. Institute for Urban Research and Structural Policy (IfS, Berlin), Berlin, Germany

    Martina Kauffeld-Monz

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  1. Michael Fritsch
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  2. Martina Kauffeld-Monz
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Correspondence to Martina Kauffeld-Monz.

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Fritsch, M., Kauffeld-Monz, M. The impact of network structure on knowledge transfer: an application of social network analysis in the context of regional innovation networks. Ann Reg Sci 44, 21–38 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00168-008-0245-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00168-008-0245-8

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