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The efficiency and evolution of R&D Networks

Author

Listed:
  • Michael König

    (Department of Economics (Stanford University))

  • Stefano Battiston

    (Centre d'analyse et de mathématique sociale)

  • Mauro Napoletano

    (Observatoire français des conjonctures économiques)

  • Frank Schweitzer

    (Chair of Systems Design)

Abstract

This work introduces a new model to investigate the efficiency and evolution of networks of firms exchanging knowledge in R&D partnerships. We first examine the efficiency of a given network structure from the point of view of maximizing total profits in the industry. We show that the efficient network structure depends on the marginal cost of collaboration. When the marginal cost is low, the complete graph is efficient. However, a high marginal cost implies that the efficient network is sparser and has a core-periphery structure. Next, we examine the evolution of the network structure when the decision on collaborating partners is decentralized. We show the existence of multiple equilibrium structures which are in general inefficient. This is due to (i) the path dependent character of the partner selection process, (ii) the presence of knowledge externalities and (iii) the presence of severance costs involved in link deletion. Finally, we study the properties of the emerging equilibrium networks and we show that they are coherent with the stylized facts on R&D networks.

Suggested Citation

  • Michael König & Stefano Battiston & Mauro Napoletano & Frank Schweitzer, 2008. "The efficiency and evolution of R&D Networks," Sciences Po publications info:hdl:2441/9933, Sciences Po.
    • Handle: RePEc:spo:wpmain:info:hdl:2441/9933
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    R&D networks; technology spillovers; network efficiency; network formation;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D85 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Network Formation
    • L24 - Industrial Organization - - Firm Objectives, Organization, and Behavior - - - Contracting Out; Joint Ventures
    • O33 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences; Diffusion Processes

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