Networking capabilities of large companies in technological fields: components, antecedents and consequences (case study: biopharmaceutical field)

The rapid growth of biopharmaceutical fields and the expansion of interactions between firms, has led to the formation of innovation networks around big biopharmaceutical companies, which as a hub, have the task of leading and orchestrating other Network-based firms. On the other hand, biopharmaceutical firms need networking capabilities to be successful in networking. Accordingly, the purpose of this study is to investigate the effective dimensions in developing the firms' network capabilities, especially large companies (hubs), and their role in the consequences of networking in the Iranian biopharmaceutical industry. To answer research questions, while interviewing experts in three areas of government, industry, and academia in biopharmaceutical field, with the data approach of the Foundation, the dimensions of the issue were examined, and finally, in addition to the main factor or phenomenon, "network capabilities", antecedents and consequences of these capabilities is identified. According to the results; network capabilities have three dimensions: individual capabilities, general capabilities of network members and the capabilities of hub companies. Also, it can be acknowledged that the network capabilities of biopharmaceutical firms are influenced by causal factors or antecedents, and the network capabilities of these firms, sometimes lead to positive consequences for them and for the network when leading to the presentation of strategies and practical actions appropriate to the capabilities of the network.