Title: Global Knowledge Linkages and The
Innovativeness of Local Clusters: Evidence From The Guangzhou Software
Cluster in China
Abstract: The
aim
of this research is to examine the importance of the nature and spatial
dimension
of knowledge sources on innovativeness of local clusters based on the
regional
innovation system approach. First, we introduce the “local buzz” and
“global
pipeline” argument. Second, we propose a conceptual framework
incorporating
two spatial dimensions of knowledge sources; local knowledge networks
and
global knowledge linkages, which include knowledge flows from inward
FDI
to local firms as a part of global knowledge linkages. Third, we use
qualitative
analyses and firm survey data from a Guangzhou software cluster to show
that
global knowledge linkages and local knowledge networks are of similar
importance
to the innovativeness of local firms in cluster, especially for local
innovative
firms. Customers, competitors, consultants and new personnel are the
four
most important knowledge sources to the innovativeness of local firms
from
both local knowledge networks and global knowledge linkages. The local
firms
that are most innovative seem to gain knowledge more through global
knowledge
linkages than local ones. Finally, some policy implications, based on
the
research, are identified.
Author: Chao
Zhao