Different paths to achieve high technological innovation in clustered firms: An analysis of the Spanish ceramic tile industry

Abstract

This paper uncovers the different factors behind the high technological innovation performance of clustered firms. Moreover, we aim to investigate the necessary and sufficient conditions of factors to achieve innovative outcomes of clustered firms. This is done by analyzing the Spanish ceramic tile cluster and using a configurational comparative method, namely, fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA). The results reveal the presence of equifinality, as there are diverse paths or combinations of factors that lead clustered firms to higher technological innovation performance. Additionally, early adoption of new technologies and a high absorptive capacity are included in most of the successful combinations of factors.