International Journal of Innovation Science

Trusko, Brett

2013 International Journal of Innovation Science

doi: 10.1260/1757-2223.5.2.i

Gomes, Jorge; Hurmelinna-Laukkanen, Pia

2013 International Journal of Innovation Science

doi: 10.1260/1757-2223.5.2.89

As observed by Porter [1] and Enright [2], clusters occupy a key position in the economy of developed countries, most notably because they bring several benefits resulting from economic and social factors. Although these authors alert us to the importance of social capital mechanisms in clustering processes, they fail to fully explore the psychological and social basis that underlay clusters and clustering processes. In the same vein, while Porter and Sölvell [3] mention that a cluster allows a shared language, social ties, and a set of standards and values to develop, they do not fully expand on how such phenomena develops. Addressing these gaps in the literature, the aim of this study is to investigate the dimensions (i.e. individual and social) which sustain and nurture the existence of macro structures (i.e. clusters). In particular, the current research looked at convergence and divergence mechanisms within a cluster. The exploratory nature of the research required a case study strategy; for this reason a cluster in the Portuguese textile sector was chosen. Data from three companies in the same cluster were gathered using several instruments, namely: a questionnaire, interviews, observation and documentary analysis. The results show that although the three companies operate in the same cluster, they are considerably different in terms of commercial orientations as well as cultural and strategic profiles, which is matched by a low presence of isomorphic mechanisms [4]; this result contradicts that of the Pouder and St. John [5] study. It was also observed that informal relations in the heart of the cluster are commonplace and that managers' differences play a role. In this way, they strengthen and motivate the aspects of the business that unite the cluster.

André, J.; Frochot, C.

2013 International Journal of Innovation Science

doi: 10.1260/1757-2223.5.2.103

Research is more and more split up into scientific disciplines; this may lead to difficulties in associating different branches of specialized knowledge in projects of public usefulness, as innovation processes. The object of this paper is to discuss scientific evaluation of interdisciplinary projects in an innovation context. The development of creative activities is often handicapped by faulty evaluation, while interdisciplinary creativity is largely supported by decision-makers, it is less so by peers, who are often involved in a form of conservatism of paradigms, associated with mono-disciplines. The robustness of traditionally used indicators will be discussed in regard with perceived reputation of researchers involved in interdisciplinary projects. Most of the methodologies for assessing research performance today are largely based on quantitative evaluation using bibliometric indicators, which is not adequate to evaluate interdisciplinary research. In this paper, proposals are made, aiming at developing better methods to assess reputation in the science of complexity, associating integration of scientific fields and leading to innovation. This kind of proposal can lead to changes in the culture of evaluators (and of some researchers) since they will have to take into account a new notion of excellence, associated with a more applied vision, including innovation and the usefulness to Society.

Amiolemen, Sunday; Babalola, Olutunde; Adegbite, Stephen; Ologeh, Idowu; Adekola, Olapeju; Ojo-Emmanuel, Grace

2013 International Journal of Innovation Science

doi: 10.1260/1757-2223.5.2.113

The paper examined the dimensions of innovation in small scale manufacturing firms with a view to understanding the interaction and relationship among product innovation, process innovation, organizational innovation, and marketing innovation. It further determines the relationship that exists between sales turnover and the four dimensions of innovation. Forty-six small manufacturing firms were sampled across the 4 major small scale Industrial Estates in Lagos State. The paper observed that these small firms engaged mainly in process innovation. The correlation analysis revealed a significant relationship between marketing and process innovation (r = 0.51; p<0.01) while there is no causality between product and process innovation (r = 0.31; p<0.05); product innovation and organizational innovation (r = 0.22; p<0.05); product innovation and marketing innovation (r = 0.11; p<0.05); and process and organizational innovation (r = 0.27; p<0.05) in these firms. The paper concludes that these firms are solely interested in upgrading and renewal of products, improving new methods of production, supply and distribution. The paper finally submitted that the observed trend is not unconnected with poor R&D initiative between small firms and research institutions, poor technological innovation capability of firms, and poor linkages/collaboration among stakeholder on new product development.

Heller, R.

2013 International Journal of Innovation Science

doi: 10.1260/1757-2223.5.2.119

Ecosystems supporting innovation are being created in many developing countries. Russia is no exception. An examination of the status of the emerging ecosystem in Russia is presented here with indications of its strengths and weaknesses. Six major categories are studied and rated in a relative system of comparison between Russia and various emerging markets as well as the United States. The rating for each category employs several factors which sum to provide a view of the overall standing of the country in areas of market, capital, people, culture, infrastructure and regulations.

Gupta, Praveen

2013 International Journal of Innovation Science

doi: 10.1260/1757-2223.5.2.131