Three perspectives on innovation in interorganizational networks: Systemic innovation, boundary object change, and the alignment of innovations and networks

Interorganizational networks are proliferating as a form of industrial organization. However, the impact of this relatively new form of organization on diffusion outcomes and implementation processes for innovation remains poorly understood. In this dissertation I present three perspectives on innovation in interorganizational networks to address this gap in understanding. In the first macro perspective, I examine the rate of diffusion and implementation processes for several systemic innovations in wall systems and material distribution among home building industry networks in the United States. In the second more micro perspective, I explore the antecedents for implementing boundary object technological change among 26 firms in design and construction networks and contrast the different perspectives of designers and contractors. The third perspective involves a cross-national investigation of the diffusion and implementation of three-dimensional computer aided design tools among 82 firms in United States and Finnish design and construction networks. In this last perspective I identify cross-national differences in the allocation of work---and as a result, the alignment of innovations and interorganizational networks. Each of the three perspectives employs a qualitative, case-based ground theory building research methodology. Integrating the findings from these three perspectives yields a number of constructs and propositions that highlight the importance of addressing interorganizational practices at the interfaces between firms in interorganizational networks when implementing boundary spanning technological changes. I induce a two-stage theoretical model for innovation in interorganizational networks from these findings. This dissertation contributes to a more complete understanding of innovation in interorganizational networks.