Digitising the R&D social network: revisiting the technological gatekeeper

This paper examines how the digitisation of the social network, and the resulting interplay between its online and offline components, has impacted the role of the technological gatekeeper in research and development (R&D) settings. Previous studies have firmly established the technological gatekeeper to be a key node in the innovation process – acquiring, translating and disseminating novel information throughout the R&D social network. Drawing on social network analysis and interview evidence from a software R&D group, we find that the gatekeeper role has undergone a division of labour. Theoretically, we contribute to the body of knowledge by developing an updated technological gatekeeper conceptual framework. For practitioners, we identify the competencies exhibited by the small number of communication specialists who are largely responsible for diffusing novel information. We then advise practitioners how to maximise the contribution of these ‘stars’ to the information flow network.     

The impact of connecting with Professional Virtual Forum,team member and external person on R&D employee creativity

Accessing external knowledge is an important part of work for Research and Development (R&D) employees to get high creative performance. Currently, Professional Virtual Forum (PVF) in internet is becoming an important virtual knowledge source for R&D employees. However, up to now the impact of R&D employees’ connect with PVF on their creativity still waits to be explored. Furthermore, the interactive effects of connect with PVF and person-to-person knowledge sources on creativity are not clear. This paper empirically studied the 163 R&D employees came from 16 companies in China, and the results turned out that the R&D employees’ frequency of connect with PVF and intra-team, as well as with external person all significantly improved their creativity. Frequency of connect with PVF moderated the relationship between centrality of intra-team knowledge network and employee creativity, in such that when the frequency of connect with PVF was higher, the positive influence of centrality of intra-team knowledge network on employee creativity was also higher. Suggestions for future study on PVF and creativity are discussed.     

Competing or coordinating: IT R&;D investment decision making subject to information time lag

In this paper, we apply a dynamic option-game framework to examine the impact of information time lag on Research and Development (R&D) investment in innovative information technology (IT) industry. We focus on incentives of competition and coordination in R&D. Our results show that shorter information time lag may induce firms to coordinate their investments and avoid over-investment. The threshold of information time lag developed in this paper can facilitate managerial decisions on whether to compete or coordinate R&D investments.     

Social networks and genetic algorithms to choose committees with independent members

Choosing committees with independent members in social networks can be regarded as a group selection problem where independence, as the main selection criterion, can be measured by the social distance between group members. Although there are many solutions for the group selection problem in social networks, such as target set selection or community detection, none of them have proposed an approach to select committee members based on independence as group performance measure. In this work, we propose a novel approach for independent node group selection in social networks. This approach defines an independence group function and a genetic algorithm in order to optimize it. We present a case study where we build a real social network with on-line available data extracted from a Research and Development (R&D) public agency, and then we compare selected groups with existing committees of the same agency. Results show that the proposed approach can generate committees that improve group independence compared with existing committees.     

Empowered participation of users with disabilities in universal design

This paper provides an introduction to empowered user participation and its relevance for the universal design process. It highlights the benefits of user participation and proposes a way to implement it in projects. The paper is based on the experiences of the European project FORTUNE [3]. As an introduction, some basic considerations of the concepts of design for all and universal design are presented. The value of user participation in general and of users with disabilities in particular is discussed. Experience with the state of the art of user involvement in European Research and Development (R&D) projects is reported. The FORTUNE concept of user participation in projects is introduced as a reference model for participation of users with disabilities, and a set of criteria for the assessment of user participation is provided as a practical tool. A brief overview of methodologies for user participation and potential organisational frameworks is also presented. Published online: 18 September 2001     

Structural effects of R&D collaboration network on knowledge diffusion performance

With the advent of knowledge-based economy, the process and structure of knowledge diffusion mechanism in R&D collaboration networks have become more complex and dynamic. However, regardless of the complexity and importance of these R&D collaboration networks, previous empirical analyses have focused mainly on statics, which cannot be a sufficient basis to thoroughly explore knowledge diffusion in the R&D collaboration network. Furthermore, there has been little research done on the relationship between knowledge diffusion and the structure of an R&D collaboration network. Hence, this paper modeled knowledge diffusion based on social network analysis. It also investigated the impact of network structure on the performance of knowledge diffusion, focusing on average knowledge stock and knowledge variance. The results confirm that the small-world network is the most efficient and equitable structure toward effective knowledge diffusion.     

Building theory in ICT4D evaluation: a comprehensive approach to assessing outcome and impact*

ABSTRACT

Information and communication technologies (ICTs) act as tools for social change and development; however, there is still limited empirical evidence that demonstrates this. An outcome and impact assessment based on a comprehensive (holistic) evaluation is deemed appropriate at a time when many ICT4D programs fail to effectively demonstrate their impact toward rural development and how that impact came about. The purpose of this research is to identify the components for an outcome and impact assessment framework that is based on a comprehensive approach to evaluation. The authors applied a theoretical approach using Weicks theorizing process to develop the framework. The theoretical approach analyzed existing outcome and impact assessment frameworks from different fields beyond ICT4D. The output of this research proposed five key outcome and impact themes, which are informed by preceding domains of evaluation, essential for the assessment of ICT4D programs. These themes include Strategic Value, Most Significant Change, Empowerment, Livelihoods and Sustainability.     

Technological Environment and Technology Entrepreneurship: A Cross‐Country Analysis

Recent years have seen growing interest in the influence of the environment on entrepreneurship. However, little is known about the impact of the country‐level technological environment on the creation of new technology‐based firms. This study investigates the relationship between the technological environment (measured by the amount of investment in R&D, and access to information and communication technology [ICT] infrastructure) and technology entrepreneurship, in 54 countries during the years 2005 to 2010. Using data from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, and the World Bank Development Indicators, we identify a significant, robust inverted U‐shaped relationship between R&D investment at country level and the likelihood of technology entrepreneurship. We also find evidence of a positive relationship between access to ICT infrastructure and the likelihood of technology entrepreneurship.     

Managing innovation performance: Results from an industry‐spanning explorative study on R&D key measures

Research on R&D performance measures applied in firms is still scarce. Based on the established “R&D laboratory as a system” thinking, systematically derive and identify R&D department level key performance measures. Through a mixed‐method approach, grounded in (1) literature and (2) text analysis, 154 R&D performance measures were developed. Amongst those, an (3) online expert survey, as well as (4) three independent focus group workshops with >40 industry experts from more than ten industries identified and validated ten key R&D performance measures. All industry experts involved are members of an innovation network, additionally accounting for innovation network effects. In contrast to earlier research, some of the measures like degree of anticipation of internal customer needs were perceived both by the survey respondents and the focus groups as key measures, indicating that behavioral measures should not be excluded per se. However, the importance of external validity of R&D performance or indicators to measure performance in relation to activities outside the R&D department were not confirmed. Hence, we partly confirm the relevance of the original “R&D Lab” measures, contributing a more granular level, thereby drawing implications for future research and practice.     

D2SNet: Dynamics of diffusion and dynamic human behaviour in social networks

In this paper, we present an original and formal framework, the D2SNet model designed to combine both the social network evolution and the diffusion dynamics among individuals. We have conducted experiments on three social networks that show identical characteristics as real social networks. A formal definition of the model is provided and we describe its implementation in a simulation tool. We represent human behaviors and information dissemination strategies by standard and synthetic scheme. In a first step, we study the impact of network growing strategies only and we highlight important parameters such as the evolution speed and mainly the kind of strategies that favour or not the spread. Then we study a more complete evolution strategy that involves link creation and deletion. We provide a deep analysis on the impact of each parameter such as evolution speed, creation and deletion probabilities and dynamic human behaviors on the diffusion amplitude and coverage. Our study gives a novel and useful insight in the diffusion process in a dynamic context.     

Managing Distributed Innovation: Strategic Utilization of Open and User Innovation

Research from a variety of perspectives has argued that innovation no longer takes place within a single organization, but rather is distributed across multiple stakeholders in a value network. Here we contrast the vertically integrated innovation model to open innovation, user innovation, as well as other distributed processes (cumulative innovation, communities or social production, and co‐creation), while we also discuss open source software and crowdsourcing as applications of the perspectives. We consider differences in the nature of distributed innovation, as well as its origins and its effects. From this, we contrast the predictions of the perspectives on the sources, motivation and value appropriation of external innovation, and thereby provide a framework for the strategic management of distributed innovation.     

Methods for formation of features of tree-like structures on fundus images

A fundamental problem of computer diagnostics is the detection of a vascular system on an image and the determination of its local and global parameters. Methods for tracing vessels and estimating their diagnostic features based on a mathematical model of a fundus fragment are described. This work was supported by the Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation, Administration of Samara Region, the U.S. Civilian Research and Development Foundation in the framework of the Russian-American program “Basic Research and Higher Education” (CRDF project no. SA-014-02), and by the Russian Foundation for Basic Research, project no. 03-01-00642.     

SCE研究进展及其在移动智能网中的实现

引出了ITU-T对业务生成环境功能的定义,对业务生成环境(SCE)的研究开发进展情况作了综述,介绍了基于camel2(Customised Applications for Mobile network Enhanced Logic Phase2)的移动智能网系统的业务生成环境CMlNO2-SCE,说明其特点,业务开发周期的覆盖范围,SCE的系统结构和体系结构,接着介绍了该SCE的编辑和测试功能,最后指出了该SCE的优势所在和今后需要进一步增强的内容及在NGN(next generation network)环境中下一代SCE的研究方问.     

CC–LR: providing interactive,challenging and attractive Collaborative Complex Learning Resources

Many researchers argue that students must be meaningfully engaged in the learning resources for effective learning to occur. However, current online learners still report a problematic lack of attractive and challenging learning resources that engage them in the learning process. This endemic problem is even more evident in online collaborative learning approaches whose resources lack of authentic interactivity, user empowerment, social identity and challenge, thus having a negative effect on learners' self‐motivation and engagement. To overcome these and other limitations and deficiencies, in this paper, a new type of learning resource named Collaborative Complex Learning Resources (CC–LR) is presented based on the virtualization of collaborative learning with the aim of leveraging knowledge elicited during live sessions. During the CC–LR execution, the collaborative sessions are animated so learners can observe how avatars discuss and collaborate, how discussion threads grow and how knowledge is been constructed, refined and consolidated. In addition, complex aspects of the learning process can be incorporated in the CC–LRs during their creation, such as cognitive assessment and emotional awareness. The system produced from this research is tested to evaluate the CC‐LR enriched with complex information and analyze its effects in the discussion process. The research reported in this paper was undertaken within the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7) European project called ‘Adaptive Learning via Intuitive/Interactive, Collaborative and Emotional systems’.     

高安全属性价值设备威胁态势量化评估方法

传统的网络安全态势量化评估方法主要面向宏观网络安全态势,未针对安全价值较高的网络设备,给出了高安全属性价值设备的定义,设计了针对设备的威胁态势量化评估框架和评估指标,根据评估框架和指标提出了高安全属性价值设备威胁态势量化评估方法。对具体网络中实际设备的评估结果表明,该方法能够准确、有效地量化评估高安全属性价值设备的威胁态势。     

The Paradox of Mobility in the Kenyan ICT Ecosystem: An Ethnographic Case of How the Youth in Kibera Slum Use and Appropriate the Mobile Phone and the Mobile Internet

The Kenyan ICT ecosystem has attracted vast global media and policy attention because of notable mobile phone adoption in the country. However, empirical research of how Kenyans use and appropriate new media and ICTs in the diverse contexts within the country remains limited. In order to contribute to the emerging literature on Sub-Saharan Africa ICT ecosystems as well as the Mobility discussions within Mobiles for Development M4D and Information and Communication Technologies for Development ICT4D, this paper discusses an empirical case of how the youth of Kibera use and appropriate the mobile phone and the mobile Internet. The purpose of this critical realist ethnographic research article is to explicate the events in the historical development of the Kenyan ICT ecosystem as well as the components of social and physical structure in Kibera slum along with the relationships between them. This paper argues that the mobile phone eases communication and strengthens existent social ties for the youth of Kibera. However, it cannot bypass the hierarchical nature of Kenya where “class and place of residence are distinctive social markers in the process of social networking” [Wallis, C. (2011). Mobile phones without guarantees: The promises of technology and the contingencies of culture. New Media & Society, 13(3), 471–485. Wallis, C. (2013). Technomobility in China: Young migrant women and mobile phones. New York, NY: New York University Press]. Therefore, the young Kiberans predominantly use and appropriate the mobile phone to network with those in the same lower income strata. This is because they are widely perceived in Kenyan society as the “other and what does not belong” because they are slum residents [Hall, S. (2013). The spectacle of the other. In S. Hall, J. Evans, & S. Nixon (Eds.), Representation: Cultural representations and signifying practices (2nd ed., pp. 223–283). Sage. p. 257].     

基于支持向量机的R＆D项目中止决策算法

提出了一种基于支持向量机的R＆D项目的中止决策算法,该算法根据以往同类R＆D项目失败或成功的经验作为学习样本,来识别未知性质的R＆D项目的类别,从而做出中止还是继续研究的决策。算法不存在困扰神经网络算法的局部极小值问题。为解决项目各指标权重及合理阈值难以确定的R＆D项目中止决策提供了一种有效的途径。最后用一个实例验证了该算法的可行性和有效性。     

How to orchestrate R&D networks? The role of orchestration subprocesses and collaborative practices over time

Although R&D networks have been increasingly used by companies to foster innovation through collaboration, there are still challenges regarding how to successfully orchestrate such projects. The goal of this study is to analyse how a hub firm orchestrates an R&D network through collaborative practices. We based our study on the three orchestration subprocesses proposed by Dhanaraj and Parkhe, namely, to foster knowledge mobility, guarantee innovation appropriability, and maintain network stability. To achieve our goal, we analysed the collaborative practices in an R&D network in the semiconductor industry in France. The case consists of an R&D network among 26 companies to create a new transistor. The data include 65 interviews and 192 documents. The study contributes to the literature on network orchestration by showing that specific collaborative practices performed by a hub firm enable a fourth orchestration subprocess—network reconfiguration—which is necessary in long‐lasting and complex R&D networks and also affects the other three subprocesses. Network reconfiguration consists in disassociating and attracting new members to the R&D network to cover knowledge demands, and is performed by the hub‐firm through specific collaborative practices. The results can benefit practitioners by showing which collaborative practices may be useful for a hub firm throughout the development of an R&D network.     

Determinants of users’ continuance of social networking sites: A self-regulation perspective

Social networking sites (SNS) have transformed how individuals interact, build and maintain social relationships. We proposed a research model on the determinants of user continuance using Bagozzi's framework of self-regulation as the theoretical foundation. Following the process of appraisal → emotional reactions → coping responses, we developed the model by leveraging findings from social presence and IS continuance research. Based on survey data from Facebook users, we found that appraisal factors (pleasure, awareness, connectedness, and system quality) were strong determinants of emotional reaction (user satisfaction and sense of belonging). User satisfaction and sense of belonging together positively influenced continuance intention.     

A framework for parallel computational physics algorithms on multi-core: SPH in parallel

In this paper, a simulation framework that enables distributed numerical computing in multi-core shared-memory environments is presented. Using multiple threads allows a single memory image to be shared concurrently across cores but potentially introduces race conditions. Race conditions can be avoided by ensuring each core operates on an isolated memory block. This is usually achieved by running a different operating system process on each core, such as multiple MPI processes. However, we show that in many computational physics problems, memory isolation can also be enforced within a single process by leveraging spatial sub-division of the physical domain. A new spatial sub-division algorithm is presented that ensures threads operate on different memory blocks, allowing for in-place updates of state, with no message passing or creation of local variables during time stepping. Additionally, the developed framework controls task distribution dynamically ensuring an events based load balance. Results from fluid mechanics analysis using Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) are presented demonstrating linear performance with number of cores.