Citation

Timpka T. Sports Technol. 2008; 1(6): 267-276.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1002/jst.66

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Actor network theory was applied to investigate how safety is highlighted and managed in the innovation systems where third-generation artificial turfs for football are developed. Mediator sites located between macro- and micro-level networks in the innovation system were found to play a central role in the assurance of turf safety. At these sites, practical experiences and formal knowledge is cooperatively developed and shared with both policy makers in the macro-level network and sports-persons from local communities. The reward systems for information sharing "up-stream" and "down-stream" from the mediator sites were however radically different. To better manage safety in the artificial turf innovation system, international and national football associations and clubs have to establish a common reward system and a shared action agenda.