Dynamics of innovation network journeys: phases and crossroads in seven regional innovation networks

There is a growing body of research on network driven innovation. Based on seven case studies of regional innovation networks in tourism, this paper aims to develop a better understanding of the dynamics of their development. While innovation research emphasizes the complexity of the innovation process and its cyclic and iterative nature, network research describes the development of innovation networks mainly based on linear models. Inspired by Van de Ven, Polley, Garud, and Venkataraman’s [1999. The innovation journey. New York, NY: Oxford University Press] metaphor of a “journey”, this article develops the concept of the “innovation network journey” to describe both the designed and emergent development of networks working with innovation. The development processes are categorized into phases that may be repeated throughout the network lifespan, and crossroads that lead to the changed pace or path of the network journey. The paper contributes to the existing literature by new knowledge about how crossroads can be a part of the network journey and four main critical factors leading to crossroads, namely financing, management, organizing and shared activities.