Explaining the Process of Innovation : The Dynamic Reconciliation of Action and Structure

A new model for reconciling the action-structure dichotomy in the innovation process in industry is developed using insights from structuration theory, institutionalism, and resource dependence. It also re-integrates the break between the voluntaristic (action) and deterministic (structure) positions of innovation. Also considered are the implications of the model for issues of life cycle effects, technology strategy, and systems of innovation. The model developed addresses the questions of reconciling the action-structure dichotomy, largely neglected in the literature, by examining the impact of action on structure, viewing innovative action as both creative and cumulative, destroying established order, while simultaneously generating new rules to guide, and resources to empower, future action. (JSD)