Abstract
The proximity literature usually treats proximity in terms of common attributes shared by agents, disregarding the relative position of an actor inside the network. This paper discusses the importance of such dimension of proximity, labelled as in-network proximity, and proposes an empirical measurement for it, assessing its impact (jointly with other dimensions of proximity) on the creation of strong knowledge network ties in ICT in the region of Trentino. The findings show that actors with higher in-network proximity are more attractive for both other central actors and peripheral ones, which is further strengthening their position within the network. In detail, the centrally positioned actors repeat collaboration with other central actors in the network, as central actors gather more ‘reputation’, signalling that they will possess the needed knowledge resources. Relatively peripheral actors, either new or not so active inside the network, seek for collaboration with relatively central actors in order to tap on knowledge resources they do not acquire.
Highlights
The significant role of knowledge and knowledge networks in the innovation process is central in the literature on regional development
This paper introduces the concept of in-network proximity, defining it in terms of the position of the actor inside the network in respect with the rest of the actors
The collected data provide this type of information on collaboration, coordination and funding of projects, indicating interaction with an actor that plays a specific role inside the knowledge network
Summary
The significant role of knowledge and knowledge networks in the innovation process is central in the literature on regional development. M. Tsouri networks operate as channels for knowledge creation and transfer (Owen-Smith and Powell 2004; Boschma and ter Wal 2007), through social and business links (Granovetter 1973). Tsouri networks operate as channels for knowledge creation and transfer (Owen-Smith and Powell 2004; Boschma and ter Wal 2007), through social and business links (Granovetter 1973) These relationships can be more or less intense (Granovetter 1973). Actors are likely to seek to create strong collaborative ties with other more central actors in the knowledge network, than with more peripheral ones. Compared with the existing empirical studies that use the absolute difference of centralities of actors inside the network, this paper contributes with an analytical method of assessing whether two actors can be considered central or peripheral, and simultaneously distant or proximate between them. Knowledge networks and strong tie creation: the role of relative
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