The dynamics of local innovation systems : structures, networks and processes / Eva Panetti.

"This book offers a comprehensive overview of the dynamics underpinning the successful performance of Local Innovation Systems (LIS), i.e. spatial concentration of innovation activities in specific geographical areas, characterized by the synergetic co-localization of research centers, innovation-driven enterprises, large corporations and capital providers. The reader will gain a deeper knowledge of LIS theory and learn about the theoretical and empirical challenges of studying the LIS from a relational perspective. The book also provides an analytical framework to explore the level of connectivity among the LIS' actors through the use of the Social Network Analysis (network architecture) and secondly, to assess the variety of different types of relationships that local actors put in place to produce innovation within the LIS (network portfolio). More specifically, this book explores which network configuration is associated to a successful LIS, by deriving evidence from the empirical study of the Biopharma LIS in the Greater Boston Area (GBA), which has been exemplified as a benchmark case in terms of successful LIS performance. This book also contributes to the theoretical debate about the optimal configuration of network structure (e.g. network closure vs. network openness). Finally, the study provides insights into the network portfolio composition, which has been underexplored by extant literature. Besides addressing the scientific community in the field, this book will be also a valuable resource with practical implications for policy makers and those actors willing to undertake an active role in the development of a LIS in their own regions"-- Provided by publisher.