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Exploring product/service innovation process in UK: university spin-offs from practice-based lens

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Listed:
  • Ning Baines

    (University of Leicester)

  • Te Klangboonkrong

    (University of Leicester, Research and Enterprise Division)

  • Helen Lawton Smith

    (Birkbeck, University of London)

Abstract

In this study, we explore the product/service innovation process in university spin-offs (USOs) – a category of micro/small firms operating at the edge of technological frontiers. Our approach reconciles the traditional linear model with a practice-based lens, which characterises firm learning processes as underpinned by two logics of production and development. The findings agree with the extant literature that the process overall does not always follow stages in a standardised model. The lens further suggests that the interplay between the two logics occurs even within an individual so-called stage of the linear model, which makes for a counter-intuitive observation. This interplay also hinges upon customer collaboration and feedback. Overall, the apparent lack of adherence to formal process in USOs innovation is not mere haphazard response to being small and new. Reconciling the linear model and the lens is a step further in accounting for the latter’s view of iterative learning and knowledge creation, while preserving the former’s relevance as a communication device for multiple stakeholders involving in the process.

Suggested Citation

  • Ning Baines & Te Klangboonkrong & Helen Lawton Smith, 2024. "Exploring product/service innovation process in UK: university spin-offs from practice-based lens," The Journal of Technology Transfer, Springer, vol. 49(2), pages 715-739, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:jtecht:v:49:y:2024:i:2:d:10.1007_s10961-022-09985-3
    DOI: 10.1007/s10961-022-09985-3
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Product/service innovation process; Practice-based innovation; University spin-offs; Academic entrepreneurship; University technology transfer;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • O31 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Innovation and Invention: Processes and Incentives
    • O32 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Management of Technological Innovation and R&D
    • P42 - Political Economy and Comparative Economic Systems - - Other Economic Systems - - - Productive Enterprises; Factor and Product Markets; Prices

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