Academics and policymakers have turned their
attention to innovation as a source of growth. Until
recently, many studies adopted linear, R&D-based
approaches to innovation, but these serve poorly
when examining non-science driven industries such as
furniture manufacturing, where innovation and
creativity remain crucial. Current theorizing has
brought a surge of interest in broader social
(networks, systems) and spatial (agglomerations,
regions) dimensions to innovation.
This work examines how industry interactions shape
innovation. Using original survey and interview
analysis, the research finds that relational
proximity to suppliers and customers increases the
number of innovations introduced by firms. Suppliers
play a key role as knowledge brokers and with the
technology embedded in their materials, components
and equipment. In isolated regions, electronic
communications was a poor but necessary substitute
to face-to-face interactions in facilitating
knowledge transfers.
This book provides insights for researchers studying
innovation, and for regional development experts
promoting regional and industry innovation
strategies.
attention to innovation as a source of growth. Until
recently, many studies adopted linear, R&D-based
approaches to innovation, but these serve poorly
when examining non-science driven industries such as
furniture manufacturing, where innovation and
creativity remain crucial. Current theorizing has
brought a surge of interest in broader social
(networks, systems) and spatial (agglomerations,
regions) dimensions to innovation.
This work examines how industry interactions shape
innovation. Using original survey and interview
analysis, the research finds that relational
proximity to suppliers and customers increases the
number of innovations introduced by firms. Suppliers
play a key role as knowledge brokers and with the
technology embedded in their materials, components
and equipment. In isolated regions, electronic
communications was a poor but necessary substitute
to face-to-face interactions in facilitating
knowledge transfers.
This book provides insights for researchers studying
innovation, and for regional development experts
promoting regional and industry innovation
strategies.