R&D modes and firm performance in high-tech companies: A research based on cross-boundary ambidexterity and network structures

Abstract

This paper draws on the cross-boundary ambidexterity theory to propose that four different R&D modes impact firm performance differently and that cooperative network structure moderates the above relationships. The theoretical model is tested by using financial and patent data of 587 high-tech firms for 10 consecutive years in China. We find that different R&D modes have different impacts on a firm’s financial and innovative performance, and network structure plays different moderating roles. Practically, this work guides high-tech enterprises to optimize their resource allocation, select the most appropriate R&D mode, and establish efficient cooperative networks.