Value Creation in the Quadruple Helix: A Micro Level Conceptual Model of Principal Investigators as Value Creators

James Cunningham, Matthias Menter, Conor O'Kane

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

63 Citations (Scopus)
4 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Conceptual models of the quadruple helix have largely taken a macro perspective. While these macro perspectives have motivated debates and studies, they fall short in understanding value creation activities at the micro level of the quadruple helix. The purpose of this paper is to address this deficit by focusing on the fundamental research question how value is collectively created, captured, and enhanced at the micro level of the quadruple helix. Drawing on theoretical considerations centred on simmelian ties, boundary work and value postures (motives, creation, destruction, and drivers), we develop a micro level conceptual model of principal investigators (PIs) as value creators in the quadruple helix. Scientists in the PI role engage in boundary spanning activities with other quadruple helix actors. This engagement builds strong simmelian ties with these actors and enables PIs to develop collective value motives by bridging diverse knowledge and creating common value motives. Our conceptual model extends our understanding of the quadruple helix at the micro level and highlights the importance of PIs having strong simmelian in order to realise collective and individual value motives. The paper concludes with some suggestions for future avenues of research on this important topic.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)136-147
JournalR&D Management
Volume48
Issue number1
Early online date27 Dec 2017
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jan 2018

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