How does distant collaboration influence R&D quality?

• Published in: Technology analysis & strategic management Vol. 34; no. 7; pp. 815 - 831
• Main Author: Su, Hsin-Ning
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Abingdon Routledge 03-07-2022; Taylor & Francis Ltd
• Subjects: Collaboration; Distance; generality; Innovations; Inventors; originality; R&D; Research & development; Technological change; Technology
• ISSN: 0953-7325; 1465-3990
• DOI: 10.1080/09537325.2021.1926965

Geographical distance plays a key role in R&D collaboration for technological development. The relationship between geographical collaboration distance and technological development has been a key topic in innovation studies. However, how geographical distance in relation to R&D collaboration influences technological development quality has not been explored holistically or systematically. Thus, this study used patent-based measures to explore how spatial distance between inventors influences R&D output quality by employing three technology-related proxies, i.e. originality, generality, and innovation. It is found that geographic distance between collaborators has a significant and positive effect on originality, generality, and innovation. This paper contributes to understanding the underlying impact on technological development and provides researchers with a more thorough understanding of the spatial distance trajectory of technological innovation.