Radical Innovation and Technology Diffusion in Traditional Clusters: How High-Tech Industries Reinvented a Traditional Cluster

Research Methodology

The paper is based in a case study of a small company - Kerajet®- based in Castellon in the heart of the Tile Ceramic Cluster. This company was founded by two electronic engineers and a chemist with ample experience and background in mechanical engineering, tile ceramic process and information technologies. These entrepreneurs had a clear vision of the digital future of tile ceramic decoration which could facilitate the introduction of just in time production in the tile ceramic processes and the development of avant garde decoration designs. The innovation –ink jet- tile decoration has meant a radical innovation which is changing the industry and its value chain. We conducted more than ten formal and informal interviews with the entrepreneurs to fully understand the product and its impact with the cluster. In addition, we analyzed the important process of diffusion and adoption by different groups of user in the cluster.

Due to its global impact in the industry, the analysis of this case must shed some light on the development of radical innovation its causes, barriers and facilitating factors. According to Yin (2003) a single case analysis can be useful as a critical test for an existing theory. It can provide a holistic approach by dealing with a larger unit analysis. Furthermore the case study allows identifying clear research questions and clear rationales for discussion (Dube and Pare, 2003).