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The link between R&D team diversity and innovative performance: A mediated moderation model

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  • Zouaghi, Ferdaous
  • Garcia-Marco, Teresa
  • Martinez, Marian Garcia

Abstract

This paper examines how diversity dimensions, namely gender, skills and education, in R&D teams interact to drive innovation. Our research supports the hypothesis that surface-level diversity might negatively affect R&D team performance when interacting with deep-level diversity. Further, the study considers the mediating effect of social capital to extract value from diverse R&D teams. Social capital favours social interaction by developing harmonious interpersonal relationships among diverse team members. Research hypotheses were tested using the Spanish Technological Innovation Panel (PITEC) for the period 2008-2015. Our mediated-moderation model suggests that high diversity in education or skills in gender diverse teams might adversely affect innovation performance, although the mediating role of R&D social capital diminishes this outcome. This study provides valuable insights for managers aiming to benefit from diversity in R&D teams while minimizing the conflict and mistrust associated with excessive diversity.

Suggested Citation

  • Zouaghi, Ferdaous & Garcia-Marco, Teresa & Martinez, Marian Garcia, 2020. "The link between R&D team diversity and innovative performance: A mediated moderation model," Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Elsevier, vol. 161(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:tefoso:v:161:y:2020:i:c:s0040162520311513
    DOI: 10.1016/j.techfore.2020.120325
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