Abstract

In this paper, we quantitatively analyze the relationship between the technical diversity of research and development (R&D) staff and R&D innovation. This analysis reveals the unique traits of Japanese and Western staffs. In addition, we investigate the influence of staff expertise diversity on research effectiveness as individual researchers and as project team members, to clarify the kind of technical expertise required of staffs in the complex process of technology integration. Our results show that, in both Japanese and Western R&D organizations, diversity of information sources is important for individual R&D achievements, while breadth of technical knowledge is important for producing R&D results as a project member. On the other hand, in Japan, broad knowledge and experience are important for both personal and project performance. Furthermore, it was confirmed that in Japan, communication skills are important for project performance. Our results indicate that R&D staff appropriately integrate diverse kinds of expertise as required by their respective objectives to achieve innovative results.