The Role of Weak Ties in Diversification Strategy

• Main Author: Hideko KONO
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Global Business Research Center 2016-04-01
• Series: Annals of Business Administrative Science
• Subjects: diversification; weak ties; medical equipment; automobile components
• Online Access: https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/abas/15/3/15_0160309a/_pdf/-char/en

This study provides an analysis of the successful diversification process from the perspective of “weak ties.” Weak ties bring about new knowledge that does not overlap existing knowledge and are therefore useful to firms entering new markets. This study analyzes the diversification process using the example of Tokai Buhin Kogyo Co. Ltd., which successfully diversified from automobile components to medical equipment. The company’s president initiated the formation of weak ties, which the company then developed into strong ties so that it could acquire the knowledge and competence needed for entering the medical equipment business. As a result, the company was able to successively overcome three types of critical obstacles—technological, regulatory, and market—to diversifying into the medical equipment business.