Innovation and Networks in the Knowledge Economy

Abstract

As noted earlier, the New Zealand Labour-led Coalition Government of 2005–2008 sees itself playing a key role in helping to develop research and development infrastructures that promote innovation. As the Minister for Economic Development and Industry and for Regional Development put it recently: “Innovation can only occur when the institutional and organisational frameworks, regulatory systems, infrastructure and processes for diffusion of technology are mutually supportive. … The economic transformation themes are similarly interdependent. In order to grow more globally competitive firms we need innovative and productive workplaces underpinned by world-class infrastructure, a sustainable natural environment, and an internationally competitive hub in the form of Auckland. Links between industry and science are critical as many forms of innovation require a combination of market knowledge and technical know-how, which can’t be achieved by a business or research organisation working alone” (Mallard 2006).