A framework for analysis of multi-mode interaction among technologies with examples from the history of alternative transport fuels in Sweden

The relationship between technologies is a salient feature of the literature on technical change and terms like ‘dominant design’ and ‘technology lock-in’ are part of the standard vocabulary and put competition among technologies in focus. The aim of this paper is to provide an account of the wide range of interaction modes beyond competition that is prevalent in transition processes and to develop a conceptual framework to facilitate more detailed and nuanced descriptions of technology interaction. Besides competition, we identify five other basic modes of interaction: symbiosis, neutralism, parasitism, commensalism and amensalism. Further, we describe interaction as overlapping value chains. Defining a technology as a socio-technical system extending in material, organisational and conceptual dimensions allows for an even more detailed description of interaction. The conceptual framework is tested on and illustrated by a case study of interaction among alternative transport fuels in Sweden 1974–2004.

Research highlights▶ A conceptual framework for descriptions of technology interaction is developed. ▶ Interaction is due to overlapping value chains and shared socio-technical elements. ▶ Normally only competition is in focus. ▶ We also include symbiosis, neutralism, parasitism, commensalism and amensalism. ▶ The framework is empirically illustrated by alternative transport fuels in Sweden.