ANTECEDENTS OF SUCCESS IN A RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CONSORTIUM

Abstract

This study explores and examines the relationship between the success of Research and Development (R&D) consortia and the factors that determine this success. Most studies of R&D consortium success are based on a set of observable variables as antecedents of this success. In our study, we recognise the complexity of the problem and use latent variables as a set of weighted observable variables, rather than classical variables. Empirical insights are provided by applying a second-generation technique, namely the PLS-SEM algorithm, to analyse the data gathered from R&D consortia in Spain. The results demonstrate the existence of constructs (partner attributes, alliance attributes, environment attributes and leadership) that encompass the determinant factors for success, and also show that the attributes of the partners and the characteristics of the project alliances exert a positive influence on the success of the joint R&D project.