Globalization of technology: Network analysis of global patents and trademarks

This study explored how the structure of globalization of technology via intellectual property networks has changed longitudinally, and compares the structures of global trademarks and patents. It suggests that network analysis provides useful tools for describing recent trends in the globalization of technology. Network analyses describe which countries have higher technological capabilities, and also how countries are mutually connected for technological collaboration or transfer. In addition, network analysis confirmed that both the trademark and patent networks have become decentralized over time.

Research highlights
► This study explored how the structure of globalization of technology via intellectual property networks has changed longitudinally.
► We compared the structures of global trademarks and patents using network analysis.
► Network analysis confirmed that global trademark flow and patent flow are complementary to each other in the process of globalization of technology.
► Developing countries actively adopt technological innovations and products from developed countries.
► Both the trademark and patent networks have become decentralized over time.