Searching near and far: a practice perspective of knowledge access in emerging clusters

Abstract

Search practices for accessing external knowledge are widely recognised as crucial for innovation. Geographic proximity, industrial clusters and relational proximity are argued as providing suitable conditions for searching, especially given the context/situation dependence of search practices. However, their influence on searching in emerging clusters requires elaboration. Taking the practice perspective, this study explores how geographic proximity, cluster life-stage and relational proximity influence search practices. Agents' practices from an emerging biotechnology cluster are compared to practices from existing clusters. Experience-based differences in agents' practices are theorised as regulars and strangers in cultural fields. Implications for cluster life-stage and relational proximity research, and public policy regarding are considered.