A Comparative Study of the Influence of Culture on the Innovation of Complex Technologies

George Mason University, Fairfax VA

Investigators

Abstract

This Small Grant for Exploratory Research project proposes to investigate the innovation patterns associated with the evolution of thirteen complex technologies carried out by organizational networks centered in six different countries. It seeks iinsight into the influence of different national cultures on the innovation processes that produce new or enhanced complex product and process technologies, building on prior research that developed a model of complex technology change. Six case studies of complex technology, paralleling earlier work, will be carried out, structured by a trajectory framework developed previously. The framework reflects evidence that the innovation processes that produce complex technologies manifest three distinct innovation patterns. The proposal will support the PI and a graduate student in carrying out initial round interviews in six countries to determine whether a major research effort is warranted.