A Journal of University-Industry-Government Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Table 1 Analytical approaches to HEI involvement
From: The Role the University Could Play in an Inclusive Regional Innovation System
Traditional (linear) approach | Regional innovation system (non-linear, evolutionary) approach | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Central idea | Efforts in R&D generate innovation and commercialization and subsequently lead to better economic performance | Interactive processes between varied and diverse actors, networks, continuous learning processes, and innovation-conducive institutions such as policy incentives and trust give rise to economic growth, technological dynamism, and competitiveness | |
View on innovation | Clear division of labor between stages in the production process Linear flow of processes: no feedback loops in innovation process | Innovation is iterative process characterized by trial and error and incremental adaptation at every stage Continuous interaction between different actors is crucial Actively include users in innovation process Continuous feedback loops from users to manufacturer | |
View on the role of HEI | HEI as sources of academic knowledge and providers of academic education Focus on key economic performance indicators: research excellence (papers) and application of science in manufacturing (patents) | HEI as regional system builders in direct interaction with societal partners Focus on system emergence Innovation as inter-stakeholder learning Emphasis on the role of institutions as being conducive to regional innovativeness | |
Interactions between actors | The triple helix model | The engaged university | |
Relationships between universities, industry and government are hybrid, recursive and cross-institutional | Active and initiating role of universities in regional development | ||