| Abstract: |
Innovation has been identified as a critical asset for SMEs to survive (Hitt
et al., 2001; Lee et al., 2001). However, SMEs that need to improve their
innovation process often lack the essential resources to innovate when relying
solely on their in-house activities (Batterink et al., 2010). A large body of
literature therefore highlights the role of external partnerships, or networks
(Lazzarini et al., 2001; Pittaway et al., 2004; Sawhney et al., 2006). Despite
the increasing number of studies focusing on the relationship between
networking and innovation, there is still considerable ambiguity and debate
within literature regarding appropriate network characteristics for successful
innovations (Nieto and Santamaria, 2007; Pittaway et al., 2004). Furthermore,
the existing studies focus mostly on high tech companies (Edquist 2006, van
Galen 2008). The objective of our study is to gain insight into the network
characteristics critical for successful innovations within the agricultural
sector in Flanders. The study is based on interviews and focus group
discussions with farmers and network coordinators active in Flanders. In
total, 109 respondents were consulted. This research is based on four
innovation characteristics which seem crucial for each innovation (Kanter,
1988). For each of these innovation characteristics, we investigated how
networks could contribute, via their network characteristics. The results
showed that networks serves as a net for knowledge about e.g. new
technologies, or changing legislation in order that farmers are faster aware
of developments. When farmers have multiple contacts, they have a higher
chance to discover new things. Thereby, it is important that knowledge
providers are part of the network and connected with the different actors, and
not only provide their information to the farmers as an external actor. Also
the face-to-face communication within a network is an essential issue.
Furthermore, coalition can play a crucial role for some innovations, as a lot
of farmers are not able to implement their idea because for example the
retailer or research institute is not supportive or interested. If the farmers
set up a self-initiated coalition, it can be easier to initiate the innovative
idea. Fourth, it is important that individual actors from the agricultural
system revisit their actual role. Successful innovation processes often
originate in situations where creativity is not limited within one unit. Based
on the findings, recommendations for farmers as well as network coordinators
are formulated to increase the innovation capacity. |