How and when collaborative innovation networks influence new product development performance in SMEs: evidence from China

Purpose The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of collaborative innovation networks on new product development (NPD) performance in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It also investigates the mediating role of business model innovation and moderating role of collaboration experience and external information technology (IT) capability in the above relationship. Design/methodology/approach To test the research hypotheses about the relationships above, survey data were collected from 209 Chinese manufacturing SMEs. Multiple hierarchical regressions analysis was used to examine the hypotheses. Findings Results reveal that collaborative innovation networks have positive impacts on NPD performance in SMEs. Moreover, business model innovation mediates and collaboration experience and external IT capability positively moderate the relationship between collaborative innovation networks and NPD performance in SMEs. Originality/value This study paints a more complete picture of the relationship between collaborative innovation networks and NPD performance in SMEs and advances the understanding of how and when SMEs enhance their NPD performance through collaborative innovation networks.