The double helix model: Dynamic evolution of knowledge absorptive capacity and innovation efficiency

Area of Science:

• Economics
• Innovation Studies
• Technology Management

Background:

• Traditional models often view absorptive capacity and innovation efficiency linearly.
• Understanding their dynamic, synergistic relationship is crucial for economic growth and technological advancement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a "double helix" dynamic evolution model for absorptive capacity and innovation efficiency.
• To analyze the impact of policy environment and knowledge spillovers on this relationship.
• To investigate the heterogeneity of absorptive capacity's effect across different economic contexts and time periods.

Main Methods:

• Utilized panel data from 29 countries (1960-2023).
• Employed fixed-effects models and instrumental variable methods.
• Constructed composite indicators and performed grouped regressions with robustness checks.

Main Results:

• A marginally enhancing convex positive effect of absorptive capacity on innovation efficiency was found.
• The policy environment and knowledge spillovers moderate this relationship, with excessive absorptive capacity potentially suppressing efficiency in low spillover environments.
• Absorptive capacity's role was more significant in early economic development stages and pre-2000.

Conclusions:

• The study advances the theoretical framework of innovation efficiency by introducing a dynamic, non-linear model.
• Findings provide practical insights for formulating targeted innovation policies and enterprise strategies.
• The