Combining Knowledge from Different Sources, Channels and Geographical Scales

Abstract

The aim of this article is to examine conceptually and empirically how innovative firms combine knowledge (1) provided by different sources, (2) accessed at different spatial scales, and (3) acquired through different channels. We add to the conceptual debate by contrasting and synthesizing the perspectives offered on these issues by four key concepts, namely the local buzz and global pipelines argument, the knowledge base approach, the notions of STI and DUI modes of innovation as well as the regional innovation systems concept. The empirical part of the article contains an analysis of knowledge sourcing activities and knowledge combinations employed by 181 firms belonging to the Austrian automotive supplier industry. Our findings reveal that it is, indeed, combinations of knowledge sourced from different partners located at different spatial scales and acquired through different channels that are relevant. However, it is particular knowledge combinations that dominate while others are negligible. Austrian automotive supplier firms combine knowledge provided by customers with knowledge inputs from a variety of other sources. Most of the combinations involve the international level combined with the regional and/or national level. Finally, firms combine spillovers with a variety of other channels to acquire innovation-relevant knowledge.JEL Code: O30, R10, D83 AbstractThe aim of this article is to examine conceptually and empirically how innovative firms combine knowledge (1) provided by different sources, (2) accessed at different spatial scales, and (3) acquired through different channels. We add to the conceptual debate by contrasting and synthesizing the perspectives offered on these issues by four key concepts, namely the local buzz and global pipelines argument, the knowledge base approach, the notions of STI and DUI modes of innovation as well as the regional innovation systems concept. The empirical part of the article contains an analysis of knowledge sourcing activities and knowledge combinations employed by 181 firms belonging to the Austrian automotive supplier industry. Our findings reveal that it is, indeed, combinations of knowledge sourced from different partners located at different spatial scales and acquired through different channels that are relevant. However, it is particular knowledge combinations that dominate while others are negligible. Austrian automotive supplier firms combine knowledge provided by customers with knowledge inputs from a variety of other sources. Most of the combinations involve the international level combined with the regional and/or national level.Finally, firms combine spillovers with a variety of other channels to acquire innovationrelevant knowledge.

Does Combinatorial Knowledge Lead to a Better Innovation Performance of Firms?

“…However, these studies also demonstrated more complex patterns of innovation bringing forward evidence for the combinaton of knowledge bases in many of those sectors (Halkier et al 2010). Similar arguments and findings were presented by Crevoisier and Jeannerat (2009), , Grillitsch and Trippl (2013), Manniche (2012), Strambach and Klement (2012). In particular the report on the EURODITE project (Halkier et al 2010, p. 52 ff) is of interest here.…”

“…This to some extent is a further development of Camagni's argument, since it also demonstrates the benefit of combining local and global knowledge relations. It also suffers from too strong simplifications as was pointed out by Trippl et al (2009) and by Grillitsch and Trippl (2013).…”

Beyond Apprenticeship: Knowledge Brokers and Sustainability of Apprentice-Based Clusters

“…Over the past 20 years, four key approaches to knowledge systems have been discussed: (1) the knowledge-based approach; (2) the Science-Technology-Innovation (STI) and Doing-Using-Interacting (DUI) modes of innovation; (3) the regional innovation systems (RIS) concept; and (4) the local buzz and global pipelines argument [1]. However, the core weaknesses of these approaches are that they are mainly derived from innovation and creative clusters in Europe and North America, which cannot be transplanted to developing economies.…”

“…The emphasis on studying the knowledge management of industrial clusters has gradually shifted to cluster knowledge transference and knowledge channels in knowledge networks [1]. As a channel for acquiring and improving crafts and skills, apprenticeship systems have had much significance to local, traditional, craft-based clusters.…”

“…In addition, much attention has been paid to knowledge learning systems mainly derived from high-tech and creative clusters in developed countries [1], rather than craft industries in the ABCs. Asian experiences from traditional industrial clusters (ABCs in particular) have made little contribution to this research.…”