InnoCom
carries out research on the regional innovation systems in Western Canada. It
focuses on issues of technological innovation, where there is a good base of
information. Case studies and in-depth interviews link technological innovation
to other innovative activities. Members of the network develop statistical indicators
of technological and other forms of innovation, and other determinants of industrial
growth and profitability. The work will set the stage for a more ambitious program
in future years to develop a system of innovation "accounting", analogous
to financial accounting, and a set of broader measures that can be used to assess
the overall strengths and weaknesses of regional industrial structures.
InnoCom is carrying out research in the following areas:
- comparisons of the characteristics of innovative firms in metropolitan and non-metropolitan areas
- case studies
of technology management in small and medium-sized enterprises in the resource
products sector (a sector crucial to the Alberta and BC economies)
- analyses of the
characteristics of the sub-regional system of innovation such as the Okanagan
Valley.
- theoretical modelling of network requirements for successful innovation
A key element of these projects will be the direct involvement of local and provincial economic planning officials (including local research and development authorities and the MettNet Institute) and volunteers, both to provide immediate input of policy issues and for feedback on the results as they become available. InnoCom also works with federal economic development policy officials. (Western Diversification and Industry Canada)
