Innovation Networks Managing the networked organization [Hardcover]

Organizations are complex social systems that are not easy to understand, yet they must be managed if a company is to succeed. This book explains networks and how managers and organizations can navigate them to produce successful strategic innovation outcomes. Although managers are increasingly aware of the importance of social relations for the inner-workings of the organization, they often lack insights and tools to analyze, influence or even create these networks.

This book draws on insights from social network theory; insights sharpened by research in a number of different empirical settings including production, engineering, financial services, consulting, food processing, and R&D/hi-tech organizations and alternates between offering critical real business examples and more rigorous analysis.

This concise book is vital reading for students of business and management as well as managers and executives.

Preface  1. Introduction to the Networked Organization  Part I: Networks and Organization Strategy  2. Diagnosing the Organization  3. Innovation Roles: Internally and externally oriented brokerage  4. Case Study: Intermezzo Cooperation for Innovation at Siemens  5. Rich Ties  6. Cross Ties  PartII: Networking Interventions - Rewiring the Organization  7. Intervening to Stimulate Innovation  8. Innovation Despite Reorganization  9. Methodological Considerations for Network Analysis  10. Managing Innovation in the Networked Organization: Conclusions  Appendix: Supporting Notes - To Intermezzo case 'Cooperation for Innovation at Siemens'

'It is painfully rare for a book to offer value to theorists and practitioners alike. Aalbers and Dolfsma square that elusive circle by showing in persuasive detail how commlS%