Separate Units or Parallel Networks: The Role of Innovation Types in Balanced Structures' Success
Type
conference paper
Date Issued
2007-10-14
Author(s)
Abstract
This study aims at contributing to the emerging debate on how structural solutions are able to reconcile exploitation and exploration's conflicting organizational requirements. Based on a thorough evaluation of the existing literature, we identify separate units and parallel network structures as two distinct patterns of "balanced" organizational designs that seem to be able to simultaneously achieve both objectives. In several hypotheses, we argue that the type of innovation is a central contingency for the structural solutions' success. While separate units can be expected to be more successful under radical innovation conditions, parallel network structures presumably deliver superior results in a context of more incremental innovation. We suggest a detailed research design for our hypotheses' upcoming validation.
Language
English
Keywords
Organizational Design
Innovation
Separate Units
Parallel Networks
HSG Classification
contribution to scientific community
Refereed
Yes
Start page
8
Event Title
27th Strategic Management Society (SMS) Annual International Conference
Event Location
San Diego, CA
Event Date
14.-17.10.2007
Subject(s)
Division(s)
Eprints ID
39295