Our Semiconductor Integrated Circuit Enterprises Innovation Ecosystem Coupling Mechanism Research

The competition in the semiconductor IC companies does not just focus on product itself, but is upgraded to the competition of its interdependence ecosystem that is formed by related upstream and downstream organizations which are also intertwined with intensive elements. The key point studied in the dissertation is how the performance of the focal firm depends on the innovation ability in its ecosystem and the coupling mechanism with its related organization.Two main dimensions of the ecosystem of semiconductor industry were identified: Vertical and horizontal. Vertical means the upstream and downstream organization in the supply chain of the industry, they do not truly rely on each other as there are optional partners. Horizontal means the ecosystem is characterized by extensive factors. They are coexistence and co-evolution based on the coupling component, such as:Technology, Patent licenses, Intellectual Property, Technology Cooperation, Industry policies, Market&Consumers, etc.The co-evolution mechanism, through the formation of these key factors in the symbiosis chain of the ecosystem and coupling effect; the connotation of the ecosystem characteristics, through combination of evolution of the ecosystem of the semiconductor enterprises and technology development; the ecosystem boundaries and ecological niche theory, through definition of the two dimension, described above, and further following with a thorough analysis of the mechanism of implementation of strategy of coupling, the coupling mechanism, was explored in this thesis. Special attention was paid to the factors in horizontal dimension which influences the performance of coexistence and coevolution the utmost.The thesis contains success case study from the semiconductor industry, Qualcomm from US, ARM from British, C*Core from China and further expounds the success factors in its ecosystem and its adaptability to Chinese semiconductor companies.Through the study of theoretical reviews of the semiconductor integrated circuit innovation ecosystem and the coupling mechanism, and combine domestic and foreign related case, the conclusion is as follows:First, the parties should seek independent ecological niche instead of involving into vicious competition in China’s semiconductor innovative ecosystem. Second, the comparative and competitive advantages are basic to have for the company and the ability to have innovative engine well stimulated are most important for enhancement. Third, both government and industry partners are the significant roles on creating and improving China’s semiconductor integrated innovative ecosystem.