The Spatial Dimension of Technology Policy: A framework for evaluating the systemic effects of technological innovation

Since the decline of the aggregate economic growth rates in the 1970's and ensuing changes in the international division of labour, innovation is increasingly being considered the key factor in national as well as regional and local development. Innovation requires a "scientific infrastructure" and close (synergetic) interaction of potentially innovative actors, particularly research and training, government, services, and production units. This applies to all the spatial levels mentioned. Some countries have applied technology policy in a general a spatial form, others in sinspatial1y concentrated: (national science city type) or spatially decentralized from (ea. the Japanese Technopo1is policy). In the view of the systemic character of new technologies, important criteria for their success are their permeating effects primarily in three dimensions: horizontally from high-tech to traditional sectors, vertically between firms of different size, and spatially between different locations and regions. Examples of different types of regional innovation strategies, are given such as centrally (Central Government/large firm) externally implanted ted innovation, regionally (Local Government - local university, local enterprise/community) initiated innovation. Finally a framework for the analysis of their permeating effects is offered.