Indexed by:Journal Papers

Date of Publication:2019-01-01

Journal:INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF TECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT

Included Journals:SCIE、EI、SSCI

Volume:81

Issue:1-2

Page Number:94-117

ISSN No.:0267-5730

Key Words:external knowledge sources; patent coupling analysis; distribution structure; technology characteristics; global innovators

Abstract:In an open innovation environment, to effectively seek and acquire external knowledge sources and promote organisational innovation, it is necessary to understand the distribution structure and evolution characteristics of global innovators. Using the perspective of knowledge characteristics of innovators and their knowledge relationships, this paper adopts a patent coupling analysis approach and proposes an analysis content framework and corresponding procedures. We take the flat panel display industry as an example and investigate the overall distribution structure, individual technology characteristics and evolution of the Top 60 innovators in three stages. The research findings revealed the overall distribution groups (subfields) and the evolution of the primary global innovators, their individual technology characteristics and their technology innovation strategies. This study provides firms with valuable references with which to analyse external knowledge sources, manage R&D cooperation and determine technological innovation strategies.