Goals and objects in value co-creation within healthcare innovation networks

Purpose This study aims to understand multi-actor value co-creation in a Nordic healthcare innovation network. This study answers the question: how healthcare innovation collaboration embeds multiple organizational goals and societal objects in the value co-creation of a network. Design/methodology/approach This study expands research on value co-creation within innovation networks by adding to the organizational analysis the object-orientedness of the collaborative activity. The authors use a qualitative inquiry to interpret a case study of a Nordic network comprising healthcare organizations, testing hubs and organizations representing private firms. Findings The analysis of interview and archival data reveals various goals at organizational level and objects at society level that direct value co-creation, depending on actor roles and conditions developing within and outside the network. The analysis suggests bridging-in and bridging-out as the mechanisms through which goals and objects come together in value co-creating activity. Originality/value By using an object-oriented view of value co-creation, this study embeds the innovation network’s collaborative activity within the broader context of changing societal structures. This involves understanding the society-level “need states” that actors draw on to frame the activity as sustainable.