Rethinking the trade-off relationship between innovation quantity and quality: the evidence from public energy R&D programs in South Korea

This study examines the relationship between quantitative and qualitative aspect of innovation in South Korea’s public energy research and development programs. Through an analysis of 1170 projects, the study confirms a complementary association between the quantity and quality of patents. The findings underscore the importance of a strategic approach to managing innovation, challenging the notion of a trade-off and advocating balance. It also discusses how this relationship varies across technological fields. This emphasizes the need to consider moderating variables in future research on this domain. This study thus not only contributes theoretically by expanding the discourse on innovation dynamics but also offers practical insights for policymakers and industry practitioners. [Display omitted] •This study demonstrates a complementary relationship between innovation quantity and quality in South Korean public energy R&D programs.•Quantitative analysis reveals that increased patent quantity leads to improved patent quality, challenging the notion of a trade-off relationship.•The study suggests that the quantity-quality relationship varies across technological fields, necessitating strategic approaches to innovation.