Synergizing Success: Unraveling the Impact of Value Cocreation in Manufacturing Innovation Ecosystems on Firm Performance

Abstract

This study explores the impact mechanism of value cocreation among multiple actors in the manufacturing innovation ecosystem on firm performance. We construct an integrated theoretical framework of “Actor Typology-Interaction Pattern-Performance Output” to systematically reveal the collaborative innovation pathways among heterogeneous actors and the moderating effect of environmental dynamism. Using a mixed-methods approach that combines qualitative interviews and quantitative analysis, the research explores and validates the differentiated transmission mechanisms by which value co-creation among core actors, driving actors, and service actors impacts firm performance through interaction orientation. The results show that interaction orientation partially mediates the effect of value co-creation between core firms and other firms/customers on firm performance, while fully mediating the effect of value cocreation between core firms and driving/service actors on performance. Additionally, environmental dynamism significantly moderates the impact of interaction orientation on firm performance. The research findings advocate for tailored interaction orientation strategies that align with different actors in the ecosystem and various environmental change scenarios, aiming to optimize firm performance within the manufacturing innovation ecosystem.