The impact of social networks on group processes in companies in innovative industries

Purpose: In companies, the search for factors which increase competitiveness in the market is crucial to their development. One of these factors is a presence of well-functioning social networks. The aim of this article is firstly to determine the extent to which social networks exist within companies, and secondly to examine the impact of social networks on group processes that support innovation. Design/methodology/approach: The stated objective was achieved through the use of a survey method utilizing the CATI technique. The survey included 575 department managers and employees of companies in innovative industries. Findings: The research revealed relationships between social network indicators and intragroup processes, i.e., mutual support within the team, quality of performance of tasks requiring team cooperation, intra-team communication, and increased innovation within the team, as well as between social network indicators and intergroup processes, e.g., information flow between work teams and cooperation between work teams. Research limitations/implications: The acquired research findings with regard to their quantitative nature (survey research) constitutes the basis for the limited findings. Practical implications: Knowledge of the nature of social networks can help managers to stimulate pro-innovative actions by employees, which will increase the company's competitiveness in the market. Originality/value: In a cognitive sense, the research findings lead to the familiarization with the role of social networks on group processes that support innovation