Title: Research, industry and public sector cooperation – a dynamic perspective

Authors: Annica Sandström; Håkan Ylinenpää

Addresses: Luleå University of Technology, 971 87 Luleå, Sweden; Stockholm Resilience Centre, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden. ' Luleå University of Technology, 971 87 Luleå, Sweden

Abstract: While networks between research, industry and the public sector are regarded as prerequisites for innovation and regional development, establishing these structures is not trivial and their success is far from given. To deepen our knowledge of these networks, a dynamic model describing the coordinating functions and their drivers within such constellations is presented and empirically examined by means of an explorative case study. The model illustrates the challenges of cooperation in cross-sector constellations, which stem from different logics and expectations, and how different actors' degree of commitment varies over time. In successful cross-sector collaboration, actors fulfil different functions during different phases, and leadership shifts over time. A greater understanding of these dynamics can enhance public policy initiatives aimed at sustaining cooperation for innovation and regional growth.

Keywords: regional development; cross-sector collaboration; social network analysis; networks; triple helix; regional innovation systems; dynamic modelling; leadership; public sector cooperation; industrial collaboration; research collaboration; public policy.

DOI: 10.1504/IJIRD.2012.046581

International Journal of Innovation and Regional Development, 2012 Vol.4 No.2, pp.144 - 159

Received: 02 Feb 2011
Accepted: 24 Nov 2011

Published online: 23 Aug 2014 *

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