Knowledge flow across inter-firm networks: the influence of network resources, spatial proximity, and firm size

The objective of this paper is to analyze the characteristics and nature of the networks firms utilize to access knowledge and facilitate innovation. The paper draws on the notion of network resources, distinguishing two types: social capital – consisting of the social relations and networks held by individuals; and network capital – consisting of the strategic and calculative relations and networks held by firms. The methodological approach consists of a quantitative analysis of data from a survey of firms operating in knowledge-intensive sectors of activity. The key findings include: social capital investment is more prevalent among firms frequently interacting with actors from within their own region; social capital investment is related to the size of firms; firm size plays a role in knowledge network patterns; and network dynamism is an important source of innovation. Overall, firms investing more in the development of their inter-firm and other external knowledge networks enjoy higher levels of innovation. It is suggested that an over-reliance on social capital forms of network resource investment may hinder the capability of firms to manage their knowledge networks. It is concluded that the link between a dynamic inter-firm network environment and innovation provides an alternative thesis to that advocating the advantage of network stability

Polyphase alloys as rechargeable electrodes in advanced battery systems

The rechargeability of electrochemical cells is often limited by negative electrode problems. These may include loss of capacity, increased impedance, macroscopic shape change, dendrite growth, or a tendency for filamentary or whisker growth. In principle, these problems can be reduced or eliminated by the use of alloys that undergo either displacement or insertion reactions at reactant species activities less than unity, rather than pure elements. The fundamental reasons for some of these problems with elemental electrodes, as well as the basic principles involved in the different behavior of alloys, are briefly discussed. More information is now available concerning the thermodynamic and kinetic properties of a number of alloys of potential interest for use as electrodes in elevated temperature lithium battery systems. Recent results have extended these results down to ambient temperatures, indicating that some such materials may be of interest for use with new low temperature molten salt electrolytes, or with organic solvent electrolytes. The all solid mixed conductor matrix concept is also reviewed

Entrepreneurship, innovation and networks: Lessons for regional development policy

Innovation is commonly acknowledged to be a principal element in economic growth and competitiveness (Capello and Nijkamp, 2009; Harris, 2011). Entrepreneurship is also a key source of such growth (Audretsch et al. 2006). There is a growing school of thought that the networks facilitating flows of knowledge within and across regions are an important underpinning factor (Huggins and Izushi, 2007). Furthermore, regions are increasingly considered to be important foci of economic development and organisation in a globalised economy (Malecki, 2007; Fritsch and Mueller, 2004). The ability of regions to gain from the positive effects of entrepreneurship is likely to depend on their capability to turn knowledge into regional innovation (Audretsch and Keilbach, 2008). The innovation systems literature, especially the regional variety, highlights the flow of knowledge across organisations as a crucial factor for effective innovation (Cooke et al. 2011). This article focuses on those three contemporary determinants of development at the regional level: entrepreneurship; innovation and networks. Drawing on examples from Silicon Valley; Taiwan and Finland, it is argued that an open networked environment, built upon global knowledge search, is central to successful innovation and entrepreneurship, and subsequently regional competitiveness. In particular, it contrasts the open model of economic development adopted by Taiwan, especially the activities of its diaspora, and the more closed model associated formerly with Finland. Also, it shows how the enduring success of Silicon Valley has occurred through processes of networked connectivity and recombinant innovation

Regional competitive intelligence: benchmarking and policymaking

Benchmarking exercises have become increasingly popular within the sphere of regional policymaking in recent years. The aim of this paper is to analyse the concept of regional benchmarking and its links with regional policymaking processes. It develops a typology of regional benchmarking exercises and regional benchmarkers, and critically reviews the literature, both academic and policy oriented. It is argued that critics who suggest regional benchmarking is a flawed concept and technique fail to take account of the variety and rapid development of regional benchmarking systems. It also suggested that while benchmarking exercises are informing policy adaptation and innovation, they have been constrained by political and financial factors. It is concluded that regional benchmarking is facilitating the heightened interaction and linkage necessitated by globalisation. (author's abstract)Im Bereich der Regionalpolitik erfreuen sich Benchmarking-Untersuchungen wachsender Beliebtheit. In diesem Beitrag werden das Konzept des regionalen Benchmarking sowie seine Verbindungen mit den regionalpolitischen Gestaltungsprozessen analysiert. Ich entwickle eine Typologie der regionalen Benchmarking-Untersuchungen und Benchmarker und unterziehe die Literatur einer kritischen Uumlberpruumlfung. Ich argumentiere, dass die Kritiker des regionalen Benchmarking nicht die Vielfalt und Entwicklung der regionalen Benchmarking-Systeme beruumlcksichtigen. Ich behaupte, dass sich Benchmarking-Untersuchungen zwar auf die Anpassung und Innovation der Politik auswirken, doch zugleich durch politische und finanzielle Faktoren eingeschraumlnkt werden. Mein Fazit lautet, dass regionales Benchmarking durch die verstaumlrkten regionalen Wechselwirkungen beguumlnstigt wird, die aufgrund der Globalisierung noumltig geworden sind. (Autorenreferat

Valuing capabilities in later life

This research report examines, from the perspective of the Brotherhood’s aged service users, what they value in life, what enables them to live fulfilled and meaningful lives, and what Brotherhood aged services can contribute to this. With its accent on freedoms, opportunities and human rights, the capability approach provides a conceptual framework in which to consider a new model of aged services in which will enhance older adults’ human rights and capabilities, especially for those who have been disadvantaged, and ensure that their views continue to inform and shape ageing policies, services and models of practice. The central concern of the capability approach, first articulated by Amartya Sen (1979) and developed by Martha Nussbaum within a social justice and human rights framework, is the opportunities people have for being and doing what, for them, constitutes a good life. Taking this as the starting point, this research represents the first part of a larger study which will examine what users of Brotherhood aged services value in life, what capabilities they aspire to, how current services enhance capabilities and how the capability approach might be integrated into service provision. Image: Report Cove

Drivers of university–industry links : the case of knowledge-intensive business service firms in rural locations

Establishing collaborative links with universities is a difficult task with an uncertain outcome and influenced by many factors including location, geographic distance, compatibility of interests, shared understanding and prior experience of collaboration. Drawing on an analysis of knowledge-intensive business service firms (KIBS) located in predominantly rural districts of the UK, this paper examines the influences on partner selection when developing formal university linkage through knowledge transfer partnerships. The findings indicate that both geographic and organizational proximity are significantly associated with partner choice, indicating that the formation of university–industry links is the result not only of spatial factors but also of prior experience of collaboration

The competitive advantage of nations:origins and journey

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide an understanding of the origins and journey of the fundamental ideas underpinning Michael Porter’s The Competitive Advantage of Nations as a means of assessing its influence. Design/methodology/approach – Drawing on a reflection of the book’s text and associated works by Porter, the paper shows how Porter’s thinking evolved from his earlier writings, as well as how his ideas went through further periods of development following the publication of The Competitive Advantage of Nations. Findings – The paper focuses on the emergence of Porter’s cluster theory and his growing acknowledgement of the role of innovation within processes of economic development. It shows how these concepts have provided a foundation for contemporary economic development practices. Also, the paper highlights how the fundamental concepts of Porter’s text have shifted from a unit of analysis focused on nations to one where subnational regions are the primary analytical unit. Originality/value – The paper concludes by suggesting that the nature of Porter’s conceptual insights is likely to ensure the long-term endurance of the fundamental lessons contained within The Competitive Advantage of Nations