The triple helix in developed countries: when knowledge meets innovation?

Area of Science:

• Innovation Studies
• Knowledge-Based Economies
• Economic Policy

Background:

• The triple helix model (academia, industry, government) is crucial for innovation in knowledge-based economies.
• Understanding the efficient utilization of these helices is key to boosting innovation.
• Previous research often lacks empirical data on the efficiency of these interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To empirically investigate the efficiency of academia, industry, and government interactions in fostering innovation.
• To quantify potential input reductions for enhancing innovation within triple and quintuple helix models.
• To identify specific inputs with the most significant potential for efficiency improvements.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data envelopment analysis (DEA), specifically the input-oriented BCC model.
• Sampled 30 developed OECD countries from 2006 to 2018.
• Employed variables with non-negative average values to calculate efficiency scores.

Main Results:

• Radial models suggest potential input reductions of 11.9% (triple helix) and 5.8% (quintuple helix) while maintaining innovation levels.
• Non-radial models indicate higher total inefficiencies: 25.3% (triple helix) and 21.8% (quintuple helix).
• Largest inefficiency lies in reducing CO2 emissions; least room for reduction exists in Education Index and Civil Society Participation.

Conclusions:

• Significant inefficiencies exist in the utilization of triple and quintuple helix components for innovation.
• Policy interventions should focus on optimizing resource allocation, particularly CO2 emissions reduction.
• Further research could explore specific policy mechanisms to improve the efficiency of education and civil society engagement in innovation.