Networks of dedicated biotechnology and service firms in Vancouver

In this: publication
By this: publisher
In this Subject: Biotechnology
By this author: Bliemel, Martin J ;&nbsp; McCarthy, Ian P

Authors: Bliemel, Martin J; McCarthy, Ian P

Source: Journal of Commercial Biotechnology, Volume 14, Number 3, July 2008 , pp. 265-273(9)

Buy & download fulltext article:

Price: $43.00 plus tax (Refund Policy)

Abstract:

Survival and growth of firms depends on their relationships to other organisations, including key suppliers, customers, supporters and competitors. This study compares geographic aspects of the networks of biotechnology firms (DBFs) and contract research organisations and service firms (CROs) in Vancouver, Canada. We find that for DBFs the key actors (organisations and individuals) that they network with are globally located (ie not local), despite the DBFs having originated from a local university. In contrast, CROs are more likely to network with local actors, and with actors on the same continent. Of the DBFs providing performance data, the distribution of their performance is consistent with recent developments in structural embeddedness theory (ie network coupling theory). This suggests that their performance may be inhibited if they are under- or over-embedded in their network, with the greatest opportunity for success in a medium range of coupling.Journal of Commercial Biotechnology (2008) 14, 265-273. doi:10.1057/jcb.2008.17; published online 27 May 2008

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1057/jcb.2008.17

Publication date: 2008-07-01