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The strategic value of oscillating tie strength in technology clusters
William P Hebbert
School of Management, Faculty of Business, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane QLD
Robyn Keast
School of Management, Faculty of Business, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane QLD
Kavoos Mohannak
School of Management, Faculty of Business, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane QLD
Abstract
This paper focuses on the innovation networks of high-technology Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) within a Science and Technology Park (STP). More specifically, the study examines the role of network ties in high-technology SMEs by focusing on the linkages employed by small businesses to learn, adapt to technological change, and innovate.
The paper presents evidence from a recent survey of Brisbane Technology Park (BTP) and this illustrates how the competitiveness of local high-tech firms will be enhanced by the suggested model, which describes the need for oscillation between weak and strong ties at different stages of the innovation process and diffusion.
Keywords
Science and Technology Parks, strong and weak ties, innovation networks, clusters, Brisbane Technology Park, high-tech SMEs
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