Advancing a Network Theory-Based Methodology for Mapping Nexus Suppliers in Technology Transfer Collaborations

Collaboration management for technology transfer networks is complex, however, conventional approaches focus only on relational and contractual strategy development and management of direct suppliers in such knowledge transfer collaborations. This study advances a ‘network approach’ to strategic collaboration management, by drawing on the Network Theory and the theory of the nexus supplier to develop an analytical framework for mapping and understanding the indirect dependencies on lower-tier suppliers within a technology transfer network. The paper asserts that several critical suppliers within extended technology transfer networks are invisible to focal firms under conventional strategic collaboration management approaches. By combining the ‘Theory of the Nexus Supplier’ and the analytical tools for network mapping based on the Network Theory, technology transfer collaborators can readily identify the critical dependencies that underpin effective technology transfers.

Keywords:

Technology transfer networks , Theory of the Nexus Supplier , Network Theory