Leif Hommen

Systems of innovation: theory and policy for the demand side

Abstract As an emerging current of thought in the economics of innovation, systems of innovation (SI) theorizing offers a non-linear perspective that is highly relevant to the formation of innovation policy. SI approaches are particularly appropriate to understanding the use of “demand side” policy instruments such as public technology procurement. In this article, we briefly summarize some general characteristics of SI approaches and relate them to broader theoretical developments in the economics of innovation. We explore one of the main characteristics of systems-oriented approaches to the study of innovation: the emphasis on interdependency and interactive learning. A number of theoretical antecedents to SI approaches are examined, and their main insights regarding the innovative role played by the demand side are elaborated. On this basis, some elements of a general policy perspective are identified.

Public Technology Procurement and Innovation

Studies public technology procurement as an instrument of innovation policy. This book intends to contribute to a serious reconsideration of public technology procurement from the complementary standpoints of innovation theory and innovation policy

Small Country Innovation Systems

This major book presents case studies of ten small country national systems of innovation (NSIs) in Europe and Asia, namely, Denmark, Finland, Hong Kong, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, Singapore, South Korea, Sweden and Taiwan. These cases have been carefully selected as examples of success within the context of globalization and as ‘new economies’ where competition is increasingly based on innovation.

Public Procurement and Innovation: Towards a Taxonomy.

The role of public procurement as an instrument to stimulate innovation has been increasingly emphasized by European policymakers. This perspective raises demand for the understanding of public procurement as an activity taking place in a variety of different procurement contexts and as an act of innovation. Accordingly, this paper proposes a taxonomy of public procurement and innovation, combining interactive learning and evolutionary perspectives on innovation processes to account for the broad range of different ‘interaction environments’ or ‘resource interfaces’ in which government or public sector organizations may act as lead users of innovations. On this basis, the taxonomy draws practical policy implications for the design of programmes and initiatives for the public procurement of innovations.

Public Technology Procurement and Innovation Theory

Public technology procurement (PTP) occurs when a public agency places an order for a product or system which does not exist at the time, but which could (probably) be developed within a reasonable period. Additional or new technological development work is required to fulfil the demands of the buyer. This is the ‘ideal type’ of public technology procurement.

Networks of exclusion : job segmentation and social networks in the knowledge economy

Purpose – This paper aims to highlight the need to understand the mechanisms of inclusion and exclusion in the workplace which are often embedded in micro-level work practices. It explores how soci ...

Comparing national systems of innovation in Asia and Europe: theory and comparative framework

This chapter is structured as follows. In the introductory section, the objectives of the “Small Country Innovation Systems” book project are outlined and the methodological and theoretical foundations of the book are ddressed. This is followed by an extended conceptual and theoretical discussion. Using the traditional systems of innovation approaches as the point of departure, we specify the most important concepts used in the book. Subsequently, we outline an activities-based framework for studying and comparing NSIs. Then we discuss the characteristics of the ten countries selected for study (Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, the Netherlands, Ireland, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan and South Korea). Finally we outline the common structure of each of the country studies, including the presentation of a model table of contents. The chapter ends with abstracts of the ten case studies.

Emergence and Growth of Mjärdevi Science Park in Linköping, Sweden1

Abstract The development of science parks constitutes an interesting example of policy to enhance the technology-based development of a region. These parks, it is argued, contribute to fostering technological innovation and transfer and stimulating the growth of high-level economic activities. This article examines the role that science parks play in the promotion of regional development with particular reference to one of Swedens most successful science parks, the Mjärdevi Science Park. During the 1990s, Mjärdevi was recognized as one of Northern Europes most rapidly growing science parks, and it has an enviable record with respect to the launching of local, new technology-based firms. This article traces the historical events related to the creation of Mjärdevi Science Park that have influenced its technological and industrial development. It then outlines the parks path of development and subsequently addresses key factors affecting the growth dynamics of the park.

Reconsidering the Paradox of High R&D Input and Low Innovation: Sweden

This major book presents case studies of ten small country national systems of innovation (NSIs) in Europe and Asia, namely, Denmark, Finland, Hong Kong, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, Singapore, South Korea, Sweden and Taiwan. These cases have been carefully selected as examples of success within the context of globalization and as ‘new economies’ where competition is increasingly based on innovation.

Globalization and Innovation Policy

This major book presents case studies of ten small country national systems of innovation (NSIs) in Europe and Asia, namely, Denmark, Finland, Hong Kong, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, Singapore, South Korea, Sweden and Taiwan. These cases have been carefully selected as examples of success within the context of globalization and as ‘new economies’ where competition is increasingly based on innovation.