Recombination and Innovation: The Power of Focused Networking

The Network Broker Model

People who innovate via recombination (bringing existing ideas or technologies together in new ways or applying them in fresh contexts) tend to be network brokers with diverse contacts, and that vantage point allows them to see things that others can’t. Network brokers are able to allocate their attention in a balanced way across all contacts, scouting for recombination opportunities.

The Benefits of Brokers

This approach allows them to bring together different ideas, concepts, and technologies, leading to the creation of new and innovative solutions. By having a wide range of contacts, they are able to identify patterns and connections that others may not see, making them well-suited for recombination innovation.

The Focused Network Model

However, recent research suggests that people who are firmly ensconced in a single, densely connected community can be just as innovative if they do the opposite: narrow their focus. This approach, known as the focused network model, involves selectively attending to a few communication partners who can help them see anomalies and inconsistencies among ideas within their domain.

The Benefits of Focus

Non-brokers who adopt this approach can also reap the rewards of innovation, albeit in a different way. By concentrating on a smaller number of contacts, they are able to gain a deeper understanding of their domain and identify opportunities for improvement that might have been overlooked by those with a broader network.

Conclusion

In conclusion, neither group should change its approach to networking. Both network brokers and non-brokers can innovate effectively, but in different ways. Network brokers are well-suited for recombination innovation, while non-brokers can excel in focused innovation. The key is to recognize the strengths and weaknesses of each approach and adapt accordingly.

FAQs

Q: What is recombination innovation?

A: Recombination innovation involves bringing together existing ideas or technologies in new ways or applying them in fresh contexts.

Q: Who are network brokers?

A: Network brokers are individuals who have a diverse range of contacts and are able to bring together different ideas, concepts, and technologies to create new and innovative solutions.

Q: What is the focused network model?

A: The focused network model involves selectively attending to a few communication partners who can help individuals see anomalies and inconsistencies among ideas within their domain.

Q: Can non-brokers also be innovative?

A: Yes, non-brokers can also be innovative, but in a different way. By concentrating on a smaller number of contacts, they can gain a deeper understanding of their domain and identify opportunities for improvement that might have been overlooked by those with a broader network.