Topological analysis and visualization of interfirm collaboration networks in the electronics industry

• High-performing firms have distinct topological collaboration network characteristics.
• High-performing firms continuously evolve their collaboration network topology.
• Effectively encoded visualizations augment supply network intelligence.

This study examines the topological characteristics of interfirm collaboration networks (CNs) in the global electronics industry. Our results show that high-performing firms exhibit significant relational CN power, manage CNs that follow a power-law shape degree distribution, are predominantly horizontally integrated with low geographic complexity, and maintain a balanced exploration-exploitation collaboration relationship portfolio. We complement our topological analysis with graphical visualizations of each of these CNs over three timeframes (2004-06; 2007-09; 2010-12). Theoretically, we demonstrate the association of topological CN characteristics with high-performance of firms. Methodologically, our study defines and implements a data-driven analyses and visualization of CNs in high clockspeed industries. Our study makes important managerial contributions to the systemic design, engineering, and management of CNs.