REGIONAL NETWORKS FOR SUPPORTING HIGH TECHNOLOGY ENTREPRENEURSHIP: A CONSTITUENCY-BUILDING APPROACH TO EVALUATION
Geoffrey Gregson, University of Edinburgh
Principal Topic
This research focuses on an evaluation methodology to assess the evolution and impact of a regional enterprise support network in the United Kingdom. Connect Scotland is a national network of private-public stakeholders that supports technology-based innovation exploitation and promotes regional entrepreneurship. The key research argument is that evaluation of the network requires a methodology that accommodates the evolution of network support processes over time and their effects on all active stakeholders of the network—rather than simply new enterprises. The research adopts the proposition that commercial success is a function of the reciprocal value exchange between and among innovators, entrepreneurs and the supportive network constituency as well as industry conditions. The research draws socio-economic theories, ‘agglomeration economies’ and studies of networks, ‘clusters’ and regional ‘innovative milieu.’
Method
The evaluation methodology is fundamentally real-time and process-oriented, focusing on the development, value, weaknesses and potential for improvement in the Connect constituency-building process that brings together scientists, entrepreneurs, high-technology enterprises, universities, support agencies and investors. The methodology provides: 1) a ‘conceptual lens’ to make sense of the complexities and multiple elements of the network; 2) knowledge on network evolution that looks at (a) the origins and development of the network and (b) social, knowledge and financial value-added benefits implicit in original objectives as judged by network stakeholders; 3) case studies that reveal how network value is realized and drawn into processes of enterprise formation and growth; and 4) other regional influences identified by network stakeholders that affect network activities and outcomes. In summary, over half of the Connect constituency were studied.
Results and Implications
This research provides a practical evaluation methodology that addresses key limitations to understanding the creation, development and impact of regional enterprise support networks. This evaluation model accommodates an evolutionary assessment of network processes and their effects on all active stakeholders of the network—rather than simply new technology companies. The constituency-building model has explanatory power and relevance in attempting to capture the complexities of Connect Scotland and the cumulative actions of Connect, its stakeholders and complementary support initiatives that represent a regional depository of knowledge, capabilities and resources.
CONTACT: Geoffrey Gregson, University of Edinburgh, School of Management, 7 Bristo Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9AL, UK; (T) 44 0131 650 3826; (F) 44 0131 668 3053; Geoff.Gregson@ed.ac.uk
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