Technological discontinuities, outsiders and social capital: a case study from Formula 1

David J. Smith

European Journal of Innovation Management, 2012, vol. 15, issue 3, 332-350

Abstract: Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to examine how and why outsiders, rather than incumbents, are able to take advantage of technological discontinuities. Design/methodology/approach - The paper employs a case study of a single innovation that transformed the technology of Formula 1 motor racing. Findings - The findings show how social capital made up of “weak ties” in the form of informal personal networks, enabled an outsider to successfully make the leap to a new technological regime. Practical implications - The findings show that where new product development involves a shift to new technologies, social capital can have an important part to play. Originality/value - It is widely accepted that radical innovations are often competence destroying, making it difficult for incumbents to make the transition to a new technology. The paper's findings show how the social capital of outsiders can place them at a particular advantage in utilizing new technologies.

Keywords: Innovation; Technology; Product development; Social capital; Outsiders; Technological discontinuities (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2012
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eme:ejimpp:14601061211243666

DOI: 10.1108/14601061211243666

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