Utilization of External and Internal Information as Key Drivers for Innovations in Regional High-tech SME’s
Abstract
In this study, we analyzed contributions of several information sources to the creation of various types of innovations in Japanese regional high-tech SMEs. According to the aggregation of questionnaire survey data in accordance with the Oslo Manual, it is shown that they are vigorously engaged in innovation creation activities utilizing multiple external information sources such as customers, universities and suppliers simultaneously. In addition, regression analysis shows that the contribution of various information sources differs depending on the type of innovation. In fact, information from firm’s internal resources contributes significantly to the realization of two types of product innovations while it does not to that of process innovations. On the other hand, information obtained from suppliers play important roles in two types of process innovations and the product innovation based on imitation. Concerning regionality, firm’s location in the suburbs of Tokyo where many information sources are concentrated, is not always advantageous to create innovations. It is confirmed that the effects of regionality also varies depending on the type of innovation.
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