The joint evolution of alliance networks and technology: a survey of the empirical literature

Abstract

In this paper, we provide an overview and assessment of existing empirical literature on the joint evolution of alliance networks and technology. We selected 38 empirical studies that investigate this joint evolution and summarize their results based on the variables they address, representing the composition and structure of the alliance networks and the technology development. We find that most of the results regarding network variables and their effect on technology development are either missing, inconsistent or difficult to compare because of different industry contexts. In most studies, the measurement of technology development – the technology life cycle – is either neglected or not carried out systematically. The more complex structural network variables, such as tie strength, structural holes or structural equivalence, receive little attention. We conclude that the body of knowledge of the joint evolution of alliance network and technology is growing, but not in a systematic way. We identify a clear need for further systematic research into the co-evolutionary aspects of the relationship between alliance networks and technology.