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The triple helix model and dynamics of innovation: a case study

Maria Manuela Natário (Guarda Polytechnics Institute, Guarda, Portugal)
João Pedro Almeida Couto (University of the Azores, Ponta Delgada, Portugal)
Carlos Fernandes Roque de Almeida (University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal)

Journal of Knowledge-based Innovation in China

ISSN: 1756-1418

Article publication date: 30 March 2012

1077

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the dynamics of the triple helix model in less favoured regions, examining the role of three spheres: universities, firms, and government. The paper identifies profiles of behavior in terms of triple helix model performance from the firm's perspective and recognizes key factors for successful innovation dynamics in a less favored region of Portugal.

Design/methodology/approach

A brief bibliographic revision regarding development of the triple helix model in the innovation process is followed by a description of the role of the helixes and the presentation of a model, after which the hypotheses are defined for testing. The methodology consists of a survey involving companies in a less favored region of Portugal and the application of multivariate statistical analysis “k‐means clusters” to detect behavioral patterns in terms of performance and dynamics of the triple helix model from the firm's viewpoint. In order to verify the hypotheses, tests of multiple average differences are used to assess the unique characteristics of each cluster and the independent test of Chi‐square.

Findings

The results point to the existence of a positive relationship between the dynamics of the triple helix model in terms of different types and objectives to innovate, namely, in regards to introducing new products as well as ecological innovation and their efforts to improve communications relative to the obstacles to innovate – explicitly, the lack of information and geographical location, the companies' innovation performance, and the level of cooperation and interaction with the university producing benefits for them in obtaining additional financial resources and prestige for the researcher, as well as by obtaining information for the education process.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to a greater theoretical understanding of the variables influencing implementation of the triple helix model in less favoured regions. It reveals conditions associated with a more active and proactive stance and consequently better innovation dynamics and regional attractiveness.

Keywords

Citation

Natário, M.M., Pedro Almeida Couto, J. and Fernandes Roque de Almeida, C. (2012), "The triple helix model and dynamics of innovation: a case study", Journal of Knowledge-based Innovation in China, Vol. 4 No. 1, pp. 36-54. https://doi.org/10.1108/17561411211208758

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2012, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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