Innovation in Clusters

6The Avoided Cooperation

The two structuring social fields of the cluster are spanned by internal struggles that limit exchanges between accredited members. This final chapter then focuses on the form of the network produced by these strained fields. Beyond the words of the respondents or the sponsors who testify to a lack of cooperation, carefully observing and categorizing the nature and volume of relations in the cluster makes it possible to realize the extent to which cooperation is finally avoided.

6.1. A patchy local network

While the local shape of the network is important in understanding the types of interactions that take place within the cluster, the importance of external relations also shows the problems posed by geographical proximity.

6.1.1. What type of organizations for what type of interactions?

Using the network analysis method, relationships within the cluster could be mapped from a significant sample. Many examples in network literature are based on researching groups with defined boundaries (school classes, offices, etc.). In contrast to observing a network in a business with well-defined boundaries, the cluster poses problems in identifying boundaries, as it involves sectoral and/or territorial delimitations (Bernela and Levy 2017, p. 5). Hence, in the context of a perimeter marked by a diversity of subjective imprints that blur its lines, the choice has been made to rely, on the one hand, on its institutional contours, constructed and conveyed by the ...