How do relational networks influence team innovation? The role of knowledge activities

Although interest in team innovation continues to grow, existing research lacks a comprehensive understanding of how relational networks facilitate team innovation, particularly through the pathways and mechanisms of knowledge activities. This study examines the critical role of relational networks in promoting team innovation. Drawing on the theory of strong and weak ties and the SECI model of knowledge creation, it analyzes the relationships among strong/weak ties, knowledge sharing, knowledge acquisition, and team innovation. The research not only investigates how strong and weak ties promote knowledge sharing, knowledge acquisition, and team innovation but also explores how knowledge sharing and knowledge acquisition mediate and moderate the influence of strong/weak ties on team innovation. Based on an empirical analysis of 288 samples in China, the results indicate that strong and weak ties significantly enhance knowledge sharing and knowledge acquisition, thereby driving team innovation. Furthermore, knowledge sharing and knowledge acquisition play crucial mediating and moderating roles in the relationship between strong/weak ties and team innovation. This study contributes to the advancement of team innovation and offers practical insights for enterprises and policymakers.