A methodological study on science and technology interaction patterns based on knowledge substitutability and complementarity

Yuan, Tonglu; Wang, Jiajie

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/126238 Copy

Description

Title

A methodological study on science and technology interaction patterns based on knowledge substitutability and complementarity

Author(s)

• Yuan, Tonglu
• Wang, Jiajie

Issue Date

2025-03-11

Keyword(s)

• Scientific and Technological Interaction Patterns
• Knowledge Complementarity
•  Knowledge Substitutability
•  Complex Network Analysis

Abstract

Understanding the interaction patterns between science and technology (S&T) is crucial for innovation, yet research observing relationships between different knowledge types within S&T interactions from a knowledge substitutability and complementarity perspective is lacking. This study addresses this gap by analyzing S&T interactions through two indicators: knowledge complementarity and knowledge substitutability. By integrating citations and semantic information from scientific and technological publications, a network is constructed to delineate clusters of tightly interconnected knowledge entities and examine intra-cluster and inter-cluster interactions. In the field of genetic engineering vaccines, the study reveals key insights. Within clusters, scientific and technological knowledge coexist, indicating a close interplay between foundational research and practical applications within the same thematic areas. Technological knowledge exhibits higher substitutability than scientific knowledge. The intensity of intra-cluster interactions correlates with the field's development stage, where active knowledge exchange signifies rapid advancement. Between clusters, initially a central cluster shows high knowledge complementarity with others, implying widespread integration of core concepts across subfields. As the field matures, inter-cluster interactions balance out, reflecting diversification and specialization. Knowledge substitutability and complementarity indices peak in the early stages, then decline and slightly rise thereafter, indicating a shift towards incremental innovation and consolidation of existing knowledge. This study provides a novel methodological framework for measuring S&T linkages, contributing to a deeper theoretical understanding of their dynamic relationship. Practically, it offers insights for promoting technological innovation, thereby informing strategic planning and resource allocation in R&D.

Publisher

iSchools

Series/Report Name or Number

iConference 2025 Proceedings

Type of Resource

Other

Genre of Resource

Conference Poster

Language

eng

Handle URL

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/126238

Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2025 is held by Tonglu Yuan and Jiajie Wang. Copyright permissions, when appropriate, must be obtained directly from the authors.

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