Title: Comparative examination of the input-oriented and output-oriented R&D technical efficiency in OECD

Authors: Constantinos Tsamadias; Stylianos Margaritis; Christos Staikouras; Emmanuel Mamatzakis

Addresses: Department of Economy and Sustainable Development, School of Environment, Geography and Applied Economics, Harokopio University, Athens, 17676, Greece ' Department of Computer Science and Telecommunications, School of Sciences, University of Thessaly, Lamia, 35131, Greece ' Department of Accounting and Finance, School of Business, Athens University of Economics and Business, Athens, 10562, Greece ' Department of Management, School of Business, Economics and Informatics, Birkbeck, University of London, Birkbeck, WC1E7JL, London, UK

Abstract: Using the non-parametric method of data envelope analysis (DEA), this study empirically explores and compares the technical efficiency of Research & Development (R&D) in 35 OECD countries from 2013 to 2020. Our model offers accurate estimations and corrects for misspecification. We assess both technical efficiency that is output oriented and technical efficiency that is input oriented. Additionally, we make a distinction between "narrow" R&D, which encompass both basic and applied research, and "broad" R&D, which also include experimental development. Once we derive efficiency we proceed with a thorough comparison evaluation utilising four criteria for all models, all countries, and all groups of countries. The findings show that efficiency varies between countries and between models. The northern European countries received the highest efficiency scores, confirming their dominance in R&D at global level. The findings are crucial not only for the academics but also for national and international policymakers since they give guidance for the necessary actions to increase R&D efficiency.

Keywords: data envelope analysis; DEA; Research & Development; R&D; efficiency; OECD.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTPM.2025.148843

International Journal of Technology, Policy and Management, 2025 Vol.25 No.3, pp.262 - 287

Received: 20 Oct 2023
Accepted: 15 Mar 2024
Published online: 29 Sep 2025 *

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