Description
Book SynopsisThis book investigates the effects of organizational contexts on the process of technological innovation. It analyses the internal organization of the firm as well as external influences, and examines how these factors affect a firm's innovative potential. The organization of the firm, it is argued, is intrinsic to the innovation process itself.
The authors consider new concepts of the theory of the firm, look at evolutionary economics and concepts of innovation within this school of thought, and analyse national and sectoral systems of innovation. They discuss firm-specific knowledge and organization, and its effects on innovative opportunities. In addition, they pay special attention to a firm's ability to innovate in relation to incentives, and the sources of technology available to them. From this they conclude that organizational factors are primary features of the process of technical change.
Included in the discussion are examinations of:
- networks of collaborating firms in R&D activity
- 'technology foresight' and the direction of future innovative activity in industrial sectors
- the relationship between business units and corporate parents
- government and regulatory agencies
- the role of capital, and short termism in financial markets
- the relationship between suppliers and customers
Technological Change and Organization will be of welcomed by those interested in technological change and innovation, institutional and evolutionary economics, as well as to microeconomists interested in the theory of the firm and industrial organization.
Trade Review'This book has very nicely highlighted how the internal organization of a firm and its external influence are intrinsic to the innovative potential of the firms. The book, because of certain new insights on this important issue of innovative capabilities would be very useful to policy makers, industry, and researchers in the area of innovation and technological change.' -- N. Mrinalini, Journal of Scientific and Industrial Research
Table of ContentsContents: 1. Introduction 2. Innovation, Capabilities and Knowledge 3. Research Procedures Induced by Non-market Variables 4. International Technology Development Structures in Multinational Firms 5. Management of Technology in Multiproduct Firms 6. Reorganizing for Knowledge Integration and Constituency 7. Rapid Technological Change and Shortening Business Horizons 8. ‘Upgrading’ National Systems of Innovation 9. Foresight for Research and Technology Policies 10. Cultural and Institutional Determinants of National Technological Advantage 11. Innovation, Diffusion and Political Control of Co-generation Technology in the UK Since privatization
