RA29WP 2018 RP Project Innovation Research.pdf (302.12 kB)
When neighboring disciplines fail to learn from each other: the case of innovation and project management research
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-09, 19:03 authored by Andrew DaviesAndrew Davies, Stephan ManningStephan Manning, Jonas SöderlundAs knowledge production becomes more specialized, studying complex and multi-faceted empirical realities becomes more difficult. This has created a growing need for cross-fertilization and collaboration between research disciplines. According to prior studies, the sharing of concepts, ideas and empirical domains with other disciplines may promote cross-fertilization. We challenge this one-sided view. Based on an analysis of the parallel development of the neighboring disciplines of innovation studies and project management, we show that the sharing of concepts and empirical domains can have ambivalent effects. Under conditions of ideological distancing, shared concepts and domains will be narrowly assimilated - an effect we call ‘encapsulation’ - which creates an illusion of sharing, while promoting further self-containment. By comparison, reflexive meta-theories and cross-disciplinary community-building will enable a form of sharing that promotes cross-fertilization. Our findings inform research on research specialization, cross-fertilization and effectiveness of interdisciplinary collaboration.
History
Publication status
- Published
File Version
- Accepted version
Journal
Research PolicyISSN
1873-7625Publisher
ElsevierExternal DOI
Issue
5Volume
47Page range
965-979Department affiliated with
- Strategy and Marketing Publications
Full text available
- Yes
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2019-09-23First Open Access (FOA) Date
2019-09-29First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date
2019-09-23Usage metrics
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