Is the sharing economy a valid option for scientific research technologies in emerging economies?

Abstract

Technological advancement is occurring at unprecedented rates. Not only does that make scientific innovations more critical, but also very expensive. Experimenting costs for new technologies is outgrowing available funding and resources. Imaging microscopy for research, as an example, can cost in the millions of US dollars. New generations of these complex scientific research technologies are frequent and may have similar life cycles as smart phones. In these dynamic technological situations, it becomes challenging for scientists and innovators to afford the necessary equipment and maintenance for these technologies. Given the high costs and specialization level of scientific facilities, a model may be a feasible option; especially in emerging economies where resources are limited. Sharing has been a long-standing concept in human interaction. Information and communication technologies (ICTs) have led to a recent rise of the sharing or collaborative consumption. Much of the recent discussion around the economy has been focused on disruptive retail, individual consumer, oriented companies such as Uber and Airbnb. The potential for economy principles can expand beyond these consumer transportation and hospitality sectors.