Creating and Justifying Research and Development Value: Scope, Scale, Skill and Social Networking of R&D

• Published in: Creativity and innovation management Vol. 11; no. 1; pp. 2 - 16
• Main Authors: Groen, Aard J., De Weerd-Nederhof, Petra C., Kerssens-van Drongelen, Inge C., Badoux, Rob A.J., Olthuis, Gerard P.H.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford, UK and Boston, USA Blackwell Publishers Ltd 01.03.2002
• ISSN: 0963-1690; 1467-8691
• DOI: 10.1111/1467-8691.00232

In this paper we describe a framework for analysing the creation and justification of Research & Development. The 4S framework is developed for analysing the scope, scale, skills and social network aspects of Research & Development value. The framework is based on social system theory, a process contingency model, and recent Research & Development metrics. We present a first empirical assessment based on a workshop using the 4S framework for leveraging Research & Development. Results that assist in the assessment of value creation utilising R & D within networks are very relevant in high tech industries. The multi–dimensional process approach of this framework seems promising for understanding and managing R&D value creation, but needs further operationalisation. Case studies are described and a Dutch network on leveraging R&D has been initiated.