Science Technology Parks and Close Relations: Heterogeneity, Context and Data

Abstract

We analyze the data sources and measures associated with the evaluation of Science and Technology Parks (STPs) and their close relations, incubators and accelerators. We outline an organizing framework of analysis that highlights three contextual levels of analysis (macro, meso and micro) and that reflects the heterogeneity of STPs. We draw on the existing literature to identify the range of outcome and driver variables needed to assess the impact of STPs and their close relations at different contextual levels. Data sources are discussed to obtain these variables. We illustrate uses of different data sources to study the heterogeneity of STPs, incubators and accelerators.