Responsible value network innovation - EUopSTART

The proposal aims to investigate value network innovation practices in three industry sectors across seven EU member states and to develop a visual model of the dynamic emergence of such networks. Based on at least 14 in-depth case studies we will employ the model to pinpoint challenges and opportunities to improve Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI). We intend to co-develop the model with policy makers on regional, national and EU levels to ensure appropriateness and impact. We will make comparative studies of value networks in 7 countries across Europe, two cases in each country. To grasp the dynamics over an extended period of time we will study the same networks twice, with a gap of two years in between. Our study will focus on core issues of; the opening and ending of value network relations, the cultural differences in network setups, the role of intermediaries, the types and effects of boundaries and the influencing dynamics etc. In order to learn about the dynamics and changes within and across industries we will study the strategizing practices of all actors. In connection to this themes like attraction, coevolvement, trust, commitment and jointness will be highlighted. As markets are highly volatile the entities will have to continuously innovate and re-position themselves on their markets, their networks and supply chains. Besides interviews and focus groups we will draw on ethnographic methods and organisational theatre to tease out network narratives, their importance and how they develop. We will analyse the cases for challenges along the RRI dimensions: public engagement,
open access, gender equality, ethics, science education. Based on this we will build a first theory of RRI infusion and trial this through interventions in projects in each country.As a lead partner, SDU brings research experience from three Danish industry sectors, all in severe flux: Water production/cleansing, the graphic business, and the food industry.

Engelsk