Innovation Systems in Small Catching-Up Economies: New Perspectives on Practice and Policy

For example, smallness is often related with increased flexibility and shorter reaction times, while latecomers can benefit from earlier experiences of their more advanced neighbors. Path-dependency highlights the fact that the innovation system development processes are considerably influenced by the past experience of a particular country or region.

By incorporating these features into an integrated analysis, the authors address such questions as:

· What special features characterize the innovation system development in small catching-up economies?

· What are the causes for innovation success or failure?

· How do organizational capabilities and internationalization tendencies relate to company level innovations?

· What is the role of human capital and social factors in the innovation process?

· How can various policies support innovation in an integrated manner?

Drawing from research about Europe, Asia, and Latin America, the authors provide readers with a systemic view of the innovation system development in small catching-up economies. They discuss the unique features of this development and contribute to an in-depth understanding of various determinants and their impacts on the innovation process. The policy implications will offer a set of normative guidelines for enhancing innovation system development.