Dynamics of Knowledge-Intensive Entrepreneurship, Business Strategy and Public Policy

Citation

Brychan Thomas (2016), "Dynamics of Knowledge-Intensive Entrepreneurship, Business Strategy and Public Policy", International Journal of Entrepreneurial Behavior & Research, Vol. 22 No. 3, pp. 461-463. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJEBR-12-2015-0296

Introduction

This work is the latest volume in the Routledge Studies in Innovation, Organization and Technology being number 38. As expected with a leading publisher the book is professionally produced with a recognisable Routledge cover. The book is structured into four parts with 16 chapters written by 25 authors. From experience this appears a sensible length which is manageable not only in bringing together relevant material for such a work but also for those reading, researching, analysing and using the text.

The book investigates knowledge intensive entrepreneurship (KIE) and reports that KIE entrepreneurial ventures are new firms with significant knowledge intensity in activities involved in developing and exploiting opportunities in varied sectors. These ventures are explored with regard to their creation, origins, organisation, strategies, business models and the role of innovation systems and institutions in their formation and growth. In terms of context KIE is seen as a transformative mechanism translating useful knowledge into innovative new ventures and economic activities which are a key driving force for innovation and high growth.

By generating evidence from large surveys, case studies and analyses of sectors and countries the book explores KIE conceptually and empirically. In particular the results are from the large-scale collaborative project called advancing knowledge-intensive entrepreneurship and innovation for economic growth and social well-being in Europe (AEGIS). The project was a part of the seventh framework programme in social science and humanities managed by PLANET, a consultancy firm. By adopting an evolutionary and systematic approach to entrepreneurship the book travels further than a traditionally person-centred view of entrepreneurship.

Summary of the content

The four parts of the book relate to the main areas and themes of contribution including a conceptual analysis defining KIE and consideration of concepts through empirical analysis of KIE in Europe by the AEGIS survey. This survey was conducted in ten European countries with in-depth analysis of KIE involving many case studies and meta-analyses. Following this KIE is considered in different sectors and countries including Western and Eastern European and emerging countries. Policy implications and suggestions from the book are presented in the last theme. In summary the four parts regarding KIE are the conceptual framework, survey and case studies, different sectors, countries and the design and implementation of a system of policies for promotion. These can be summarised as follows.

Part 1 provides conceptualisation and empirical studies in terms of survey and case studies, which follows Chapter 1 introduction. In Chapter 2 KIE is theoretically and conceptually developed with the other chapters in Part 1 providing empirical evidence based on the AEGIS survey and detailed case studies and meta-studies. Chapter 2 provides a conceptualization of KIE in the form of a definition and process model used for indicators, constructs, and theories to draw implications for managers and public policy makers. Chapter 3 presents specific findings from the AEGIS survey aiming to identify patterns, characteristics and motives for the creation and growth of young firms in ten European countries. Chapter 4 develops a taxonomy of firms’ entrepreneurial behaviour from the AEGIS survey, and Chapter 5 provides empirical analysis of aspects of managing risk in young small enterprises using the AEGIS survey data. Chapter 6 presents 86 in-depth case studies from different countries and industries of KIE. Finally in Part 1 Chapter 7 discusses different knowledge and opportunities identified during start-up which are realized through the management and development phase of knowledge intensive ventures.

Part 2 of the book, Chapters 8-12, considers KIE in different sectoral systems and provides evidence of KIE across economies. Chapter 8 uses the AEGIS survey data to show different types of sectoral systems where KIE exists, and Chapter 9 analyses low and medium technology industries and examines if KIE activities can be identified in these. Further to this Chapter 10 examines the impact and role of dynamic capabilities for new ventures using the AEGIS survey data set, and Chapter 11 focuses on the dynamics of managing and developing a KIE venture in relation to the broader innovation system. Chapter 12 examines product innovation in a dynamic knowledge intensive industry with rapid technical change.

The country level is considered in Part 3 of the book with Chapters 13-15 providing comparative evidence and analysis about KIE in Central, Eastern and Western Europe, and China, India and Russia. Chapter 13 examines factors that influence entrepreneurial firm strategies using a survey of 60 knowledge intensive companies in four Central and East European countries, and Chapter 14 analyses the relationship between KIE and innovation using an innovation production function approach based on explanatory variables that reflect factors linked to innovation systems. Chapter 15 examines the emerging economies of Russia, India, and China.

Part 4 concerning designing and implementing a system of policies for promoting KIE contains the final chapter regarding the public policy implications of the volume. This draws on public policy and business strategy issues from the analysis and chapters presented in the book.

Analysis, evaluation and conclusion

Compared to previous works by KEINS and Malerba the book advances KIE knowledge for a number of reasons including a conceptual and systemic analysis of KIE involving the exploitation of practice-based innovations and non-R & D, discussion of KIE according to different innovation systems and countries in Europe, comparison with emerging economies, policies for promoting KIE and the merging of knowledge and innovation policies with entrepreneurship policy. Although conclusions are provided in Chapter 16, regarding public policy for KIE, a more conventional structure with a final chapter focusing on conclusions might be something that could be considered for future editions. The book is clearly intended for the innovation studies research community but is also relevant to the public policy field relating to entrepreneurship. At around 95 pounds for the hardback this is a little expensive for the researcher or student to purchase although this type of book will be held by university, college and institution libraries. A paperback would be more affordable for such readers. Overall, the book is definitely worth reading for those with an interest in KIE, and the editors can be commended for providing a work that makes an important contribution to this area.