The role of triple-helix models in the development of the regional innovation system

Abstract

The change of focus, i.e. orientation, in the global economic structure, related to the sources of innovation, was noticed in the last decades of the XX century. In fact, there was a kind of shift from an earlier focus on single institutional spheres - product development in industry, policy making in government and creation and dissemination of knowledge in university - to the interaction of these three spheres as a source of innovation and social interaction. These changes entail not only various mechanisms of restructuring these sources, but also a rethinking on models for conceptualizing innovation, including innovation systems (regional, national, sectoral, technological, etc.). Triple Helix model implies a shift from the dominant dyad (industry-government) to an emerging triad between universities, industry and government in the knowledge society. At the present time, this model has grown into a specific analytical framework for exploring the complex dynamics of a knowledge society and a tool for decision making and modeling innovation and development strategies at the regional, national and international levels. The work analyzes the development of a Triple Helix model in terms of its neo-institutional and neo-evolutionary perspective, in order to study the possible synergistic effects of its interrelated factors. In this way, we are advocating for a combination of public and private management at the regional level, encouraging the creation of systemic innovation and the development of knowledge-based economy.