The
function of innovation intermediaries are core to Public+Private Partnerships
for Research and Development (P3RD). We can best understand this function by
looking at how national governments measure R&D and innovation activities.
For this we can turn to the OECD Frascati Manual, which outlines Basic research,
Applied research, and Experimental development as the continuum of R&D –
from idea to invoice.
Basic research
“…is experimental or theoretical work
undertaken primarily to acquire new knowledge of the underlying foundation of
phenomena and observable facts, without any particular application or use in
view.”
Applied research
“…is original investigation undertaken in order
to acquire new knowledge . . . directed primarily towards a specific practical
aim or objective.”
Experimental development
“… is systematic work, drawing on existing
knowledge gained from research and/or practical experience, which is directed
to producing new materials, products or devices, to installing new processes,
systems and services, or to improving substantially those already produced or
installed.”
(OECD Frascati Manual 2.1.64)
This
continuum matters, and the goal in standing up P3RD is to locate the activities
undertaken within this context. The
continuum from basic and applied research through to
experimental development constitutes the types of activities that
make up the innovation carrying capacity of national economies: the ability
to proactively create value from public investments in basic research by
fostering private sector receptivity and engagement to the public S&T
systems.
Here is a useful article on the value of partnerships, and the author's perspective on this uniquely Canadian approach. I've called this barn raising the innovation economy. P3RD enacts a participatory innovation and creates resilient regional economies and clusters. More on this in the months to come.
