In the dynamic world of construction, innovation is the name of the game. But it’s not a solo endeavor; it’s a complex dance of collaboration among multiple organizations, forming what researchers call a collaborative innovation network (CIN). A recent study led by Fangliang Wang from the School of Management at Shanghai University, published in the Journal of Civil Engineering and Management (known as ‘Statybos ir Ūkio Inžinerija’), has shed new light on how these networks evolve in China’s construction industry, with implications that could resonate globally, particularly in the energy sector.
The study, which analyzed data from projects winning China’s Science and Technology Award in Construction (CSTAC) between 2004 and 2021, reveals that the CIN in China’s construction industry is growing larger but less connected. This might seem counterintuitive, but it’s a sign of a maturing network. “The CIN is exhibiting scale-free and small-world characteristics,” Wang explains. “This means a few organizations have many connections, while most have few, and any two organizations are connected by a short path.”
One of the key findings is the emergence of a giant component within the CIN—a tightly knit group of organizations that are increasingly collaborating. At the heart of this component are influential players like the China Academy of Building Research and Tongji University. The former has the highest degree and closeness centrality, meaning it’s highly connected and can quickly access information. The latter has the largest betweenness centrality, acting as a bridge between different parts of the network.
But the story doesn’t end with these giants. The study also highlights the rise of enterprise-university collaborations, which are becoming more prevalent. This trend is significant for the energy sector, where technological advancements are often driven by academic research. As enterprises and universities collaborate more, we can expect to see faster innovation cycles and more efficient technology transfer.
So, what does this mean for the future? As Wang puts it, “Understanding the evolution of CIN can help organizations clarify their position within the network and inform their development of co-innovation partners.” This could lead to more strategic collaborations, faster technological advancements, and ultimately, more efficient and sustainable construction practices. In the energy sector, this could translate to better building technologies, smarter grids, and more efficient energy systems. The study underscores the importance of collaboration and strategic positioning in driving innovation forward.
