Technology, Knowledge and the Firm

There is a long-standing tradition of research that highlights the importance of differences in the organizational and technological capabilities of firms and their effect on economic performance. This book expands on this theme by exploring the role of knowledge and innovation in firm strategy and industrial change. Underlying the volume is the belief that firms have distinctive methods of operation and that these processes have a strong element of continuity. The authors examine the role played by firms in developing, linking and utilizing the knowledge produced in many different social institutions in order to advance their organizational and technological skills. They demonstrate how understanding the manner in which firms enhance their capabilities is essential for recognizing how the economy operates and changes as a whole. To help illuminate the crucial role of knowledge and innovation, the authors use international data and insightful case studies of firms from throughout the world. These include biotechnology in Portugal, oil in Scotland, telephone/internet banking in France and Sweden, and fuel cell development in the US and Europe. This broad-ranging book will be of immense worth to scholars and students in the fields of innovation, R&D management, technology management, organization studies and industrial innovation.