Theory of innovation systems and phenomena of innovation:

Langford, Langford and Burch have argued the most fruitful environment for innovation is a dense network of connections which passes a phase transition of connectedness where isolated units are rare. From such a densely connected network, selection processes can lead to "crystallization" of well ordered systems which produce fruitful innovations. Using this model, the effectiveness of industry-government-university collaboration in Canada has been examined.

The further elaboration and testing of the model has two components. One is bibliometric in which the richness of the networks of research publication and patent citation can be used to identify circumstances in which dense networks of technical ideas exist. However, such methodology is inadequate: the idea network behind innovation includes production techniques and market intelligence which is not documented for bibliometric analysis. In a densely connected network, technical, production and market ideas must be richly interconnected. The best tool for probing a network with much implicit knowledge is that of case study. Through Mettnet, we will recruit innovative growing firms to examine the richness of their networks at various stages of the innovation process and their growth. Further information on the networking situation of somewhat more mature firms will also be accessed, with the help of the Calgary R&D Authority.

Chrisman and colleagues have evaluated the impact of research by university faculty on the growth of firms and innovation using the University of Calgary as an example. They have evaluated the impact on job creation, joint venture formation, spin-offs, consulting contract research and the licensing of technology. They intend to exploit the opportunity for a more in-depth analysis of individual case studies of the character and effects of interactions along the various paths .