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Low-Tech Industries: Innovativeness and Development Perspectives - A Summary of a European Research Project
Citation
Hirsch-Kreinsen, H and Jacobson, D and Robertson, P, Low-Tech Industries: Innovativeness and Development Perspectives - A Summary of a European Research Project, Prometheus, 24, (1) pp. 3-21. ISSN 0810-9028 (2006) [Refereed Article]
DOI: doi:10.1080/08109020600563762
Abstract
This paper introduces the findings of a European research project on the innovativeness of industrial 'low-tech' sectors. This research was carried out in the context of the ongoing discussion about the emerging knowledge society. We argue that innovation depends not only on industries with frontline technological knowledge but also on low-tech industries. Our starting point is an examination of widely held views on the strengths of high-technology, followed by a discussion of the project's objectives and methodology. Thirdly, we present the basic findings of the project. They include: statistical data stressing the importance of the low-tech sector; an elaboration of the main dimensions, resources and practices of low-tech innovativeness; and the interrelationships of low-tech with high-tech sectors. Fourthly, we discuss policy issues derived from the findings. One key policy recommendation is to support activities raising awareness of low-tech industries and their specific needs and conditions. A fundamental precondition for this is the development of a new, broader understanding of innovation that does not equate innovative ability with excellence in R&D alone. Finally, we emphasise that, in spite of globalisation and growing competition, prospects for a substantial range of low-tech and medium low-tech (LMT) sectors and companies are bright in the high-tech countries of the European Union. © 2006 Taylor & Francis.
Item Details
Item Type: | Refereed Article |
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Research Division: | Commerce, Management, Tourism and Services |
Research Group: | Strategy, management and organisational behaviour |
Research Field: | Innovation management |
Objective Division: | Economic Framework |
Objective Group: | Management and productivity |
Objective Field: | Technological and organisational innovation |
UTAS Author: | Robertson, P (Professor Paul Robertson) |
ID Code: | 48272 |
Year Published: | 2006 |
Deposited By: | Australian Innovation Research Centre |
Deposited On: | 2007-08-01 |
Last Modified: | 2007-10-03 |
Downloads: | 0 |
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