Towards a Triple Helix based efficiency index of innovation systems

Area of Science:

• Innovation Management
• Economic Policy
• Systems Analysis

Background:

• The Triple Helix model emphasizes university-industry-government interactions in innovation.
• Measuring the efficiency of innovation systems, particularly those based on the Triple Helix, presents methodological challenges.
• Existing approaches offer varied perspectives on policy implications for innovation performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and apply a novel two-phase Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) model for evaluating innovation system efficiency.
• To introduce a new Triple Helix-based index for measuring innovation system performance.
• To provide policymakers with actionable feedback on national innovation systems.

Main Methods:

• A two-phase DEA model was employed, integrating the Assurance Region Global and DEA super-efficiency model.
• Nineteen indicators from 34 OECD countries were aggregated into pillars.
• Pillar scores were further aggregated using the Benefit-of-the-Doubt based DEA model.

Main Results:

• A comprehensive ranking of 34 OECD countries' innovation systems was generated.
• Strengths and weaknesses of each national innovation system were identified.
• The study highlights DEA's advantage in allowing variable weights, benefiting less developed economies.

Conclusions:

• The developed Triple Helix efficiency index offers a robust measure for innovation system performance.
• The methodology provides valuable insights for addressing the European Innovation Paradox.
• The approach supports evidence-based policymaking for enhancing national innovation capabilities.