Unlocking Creativity: The Impact of Inventors’ Knowledge Complementarity and Substitutability in Moderating Structural Holes

This study delves into the intricate dynamics of network structures and their influence on creativity within innovation networks, emphasizing the pivotal role of knowledge diversity. It introduces the novel concept of “network content view,” a perspective focusing on the knowledge characteristics of network actors, namely knowledge complementarity and substitutability. Our research posits that these knowledge dimensions critically modulate the relationship between structural holes and creative output. We assert that both knowledge complementarity and substitutability enrich the advantages provided by structural holes in networks. Complementarity enhances the creative process by facilitating the integration of disparate knowledge domains, while substitutability ensures efficient assimilation and application of similar knowledge elements. The study’s empirical analysis, utilizing data from 33 pharmaceutical companies, employs a negative binomial model to explore these relationships. Our findings reveal that knowledge complementarity and substitutability significantly bolster the creative benefits derived from structural holes. However, the balance and interaction between these knowledge types optimally leverage the potential of structural gaps for fostering creativity. The research contributes to the existing literature by highlighting the importance of network content alongside structure in stimulating innovation. Practically, this study guides managers and inventors in capitalizing on network positions and knowledge attributes to cultivate a fertile environment for creativity. It underscores the need for strategic management of knowledge resources within networks, aligning with the imperatives of the knowledge economy. Thus, this research enhances theoretical understanding and offers practical insights for fostering innovation in information-intensive settings like the pharmaceutical industry.