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Generating tacit knowledge across borders: international collaboration and design innovation in Norway

ABSTRACT We analyse the international dispersion of inventor networks engaged in design innovation, by studying a dataset of design patents linked to Norway. Specifically, we examine the extent to which the international dispersion of design innovation is sustained by firms´ organisation-based pipelines, innovation capabilities and star designers’ personal linkages. We find that, in traditional design sectors, greater orchestration and innovative capabilities help firms source knowledge globally, while star designers tend to work independently or collaborate locally. Design innovation activities in high-tech sectors show higher international connectedness, largely driven by star designers’ personal connections. Surprisingly, firms with lower innovative capability tend to be connected to inventor networks that are more internationally dispersed. While increasing attention is being given to the value added by design, little is known about international design innovation networks. Our paper opens potential avenues for research on the distribution and orchestration of design innovation across borders.