Types Of Proximity Research Articles

Innovating in the Periphery: Firms, Values and Innovation in Southwest Norway

How do peripheral and relatively isolated regions innovate? Recent research has tended to stress the importance of agglomeration economies and geographical proximity as key motors of innovation. According to this research, large core areas have significant advantages with respect to peripheral areas in innovation potential. Yet, despite these trends, some remote areas of the periphery are remarkably innovative even in the absence of critical innovation masses. In this paper, we examine one such case—the region of southwest Norway—which has managed to remain innovative and dynamic, despite having a below average investment in R&D in the Norwegian context. The results of the paper highlight that innovation in southwest Norway does not stem from agglomeration and physical proximity, but from other types of proximity, such as cognitive and organizational proximity, rooted in soft institutional arrangements. This suggests that the formation of regional hubs with strong connections to international innovative networks may be a way to overcome peripherality in order to innovate.

Comprehensive Generation of Hierarchical Placement Rules for Analog Integrated Circuits

This paper presents a new method to automatically generate hierarchical placement rules, which are crucial for a successful analog placement. The method is based on a novel symmetry computation method, introducing the structural signal flow graph. Five types of proximity, matching and symmetry constraints are determined. According to the priority of the constraint types, a constraint requirement graph and a hierarchical partitioning of the circuit into matching, proximity and symmetry groups is then automatically computed. Based on experimental results with a state-of-the-art placement tool, we show that the new approach generates more placement rules and can lead to better circuit performance and parametric yield according to post-layout simulation.

The role of proximity during long-distance collaborative projects. Temporary geographical proximity helps

The idea that collaboration is easier between neighbours is nowadays being called into question. The outlines of the different types of proximities have become blurred, and the traditional proximity relations are being replaced by more contrasted relations, in which long-distance interactions and distrust towards one's neighbours are promoted by the constant development of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). This paper aims to analyse the respective role of ICT-based exchanges and of those that are made during face-to-face interactions in cooperation between firms engaged in long-distance collaborations. We base our theoretical considerations on various examples, which are based on the result of field research studies from our own work and then reformatted. We use them as stylised facts.

Assessing the Relative Packing Behaviour of Chandarpur and Khairagarh Sandstones of Proterozoic Chhattisgarh Basin

Abstract The paper concerns mainly with properties of packing of the Proterozoic Chandarpur and Khairagarh sandstones of Chhattisgarh Basin. An attempt has been made to decipher the nature of boundary between Chandarpur Group and overlying Raipur Group on the basis of grain packing. For the purpose of study based on eight representative thin sections of Chandarpur and Khairagarh sandstones, measurements of grain size distribution, types of grain contacts, packing density (Pd), packing proximity (Pp) and linear regression analysis has been carried out. The relation of packing density with packing proximity of Khairagarh sandstone shows positive correlation coefficient (r) with linear regression equation (y) and no clear trend in packing proximity (Pp) vs grain size (Is) is observed whereas Chandarpur sandstone shows packing density increases and packing proximity decreases with linear regression equation (y) and correlation coefficient (r). Chandarpur grain size tends to increase with packing density (Pd) whereas packing proximity (Pp) increases but Khairagarh sandstone packing density (Pd) decrease with increase of grain size (Is) and packing proximity (Pp) tends to increase with decrease in grain size. Above study indicates that packing behaviour of Chandarpur sandstones and Khairagarh sandstones are entirely different.

Environmental variables influencing regeneration of Nothofagus pumilio in a system with combined aggregated and dispersed retention

The current silvicultural prescriptions for Nothofagus are designed to stimulate natural regeneration by opening the canopy. One of these methods is variable retention, which can include either or both aggregated and dispersed retention. Different degrees of retention may modify microclimatic variables differently and consequently offer dissimilar microenvironmental conditions for regeneration. Retained canopy influences both biotic and abiotic factors. The objective was to evaluate Nothofagus pumilio regeneration along edge-related gradients within aggregated retention, and in the different microenvironments within the harvested areas. The remnant canopy cover after harvesting greatly influenced regeneration mainly by decreasing radiation transmittance and soil moisture availability. Aspect (direction to the azimuth) and distance from edge of aggregates influenced regeneration density, height and growth. In dispersed retention, microenvironments generated by different types of understory plant cover, debris, and proximity of remnant trees also influenced regeneration. High levels of understory cover (up 50%) and medium levels of harvesting debris cover (25–50%) had a positive impact, while close proximity to remnant trees had a negative impact on regeneration. These findings can be used to improve silvicultural and harvesting prescriptions to ensure successful establishment of regeneration and maximize potential growth.

Dossier « Économie de la proximité » – Les apports de l'économie de la proximité aux approches environnementales : inventaire et perspectives

The contributions of proximity economics to environmental issues: Assessment and prospects. Among the new economic approaches to environmental issues, proximity economics is generating growing interest. It was only in the early 2000s that this approach, which until then had mostly served as a tool for analyzing territorial economic relationships, was first used to address environmental issues. Using an innovative analytical framework based on the two-fold concept of geographical proximity/organized proximity, recent work in proximity economics have examined several issues related to the environment and environmental policies. In this article we propose to draw an inventory of the contributions based on this analytical framework and to identify a number of heuristic prospects. By crossing the two types of proximity and the two stages of environmental problems (i.e. the production and regulation phases), four themes emerge. Examining the existing contributions with regards to these themes reveals that the majority of these contributions deal with the e ect of geographical proximity on the production of a problem (including the question of land use conflicts) and with the role of organized proximity in the management of the problem. The other two themes are discussed far less frequently: the possible contribution of geographical proximity in the management of the problem and the negative role of certain types of organized proximity in the creation of problems. For this reason, we believe that these two under-explored themes are research directions that should be pursued in future, possibly by using work from other fields of research.

The Effects of Proximity and Empathy on Ethical Decision-Making: An Exploratory Investigation

The goals of this research were to (1) explore the direct effects of and interactions between magnitude of consequences and various types of proximity – social, psychological, and physical – on the ethical decision-making process and (2) investigate the influence of empathy on the ethical decision-making process. A carpal tunnel syndrome vignette and questionnaire were administered to a sample of human resource management professionals to test the hypothesized relationships. Significant relationships were found for the main effects between magnitude of consequences and principle-based evaluation, cognitive empathy and principle-based evaluation, and empathy and moral intention. Physical proximity moderated the relationships between magnitude of consequences and utilitarian evaluation as well as magnitude of consequences and moral intention. Cognitive empathy moderated the relationships between magnitude of consequences and principle-based evaluation and physical proximity and utilitarian evaluation. Affective empathy marginally moderated the relationship between physical proximity and principle-based evaluation. Future research directions, management implications, and strengths and weaknesses of the research are discussed.

Using the variance structure of the conditional autoregressive spatial specification to model knowledge spillovers

AbstractThis study investigates the pattern of knowledge spillovers arising from patent activity between European regions. A Bayesian hierarchical model is developed that specifies region‐specific latent effects parameters modeled using a connectivity structure between regions that can reflect geographical proximity in conjunction with technological and other types of proximity. This approach exploits the fact that interregional relationships may exhibit industry‐specific technological linkages or transportation network linkages, which is in contrast to traditional studies relying exclusively on geographical proximity. We also allow for both symmetric and asymmetric knowledge spillovers between regions, and for heterogeneity across the regional sample. A series of formal Bayesian model comparisons provides support for a model based on technological proximity combined with spatial proximity, asymmetric knowledge spillovers, and heterogeneity in the disturbances. Estimates of region‐specific latent effects parameters structured in this fashion are produced by the model and used to draw inferences regarding the character of knowledge spillovers across the regions. The method is illustrated using sample data on patent activity covering 323 regions in nine European countries. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Proximity and Knowledge Governance in Localized Production Systems: The Footwear Industry in the North Region of Portugal

Proximity is a key concept in the explanation of traditional and emergent production systems. Recently, the role of geographical proximity has been qualified on the basis of the argument that other types of proximity should also be taken into account in the explanation of innovation and, particularly, knowledge governance in production systems (e.g. sectoral innovation systems, global production networks, etc.). Drawing on in-depth research at the level of the company, this paper discusses to what extent the introduction of new technology, fashion and design, and control of distribution networks is changing the localized footwear production system in the North region of Portugal. The results indicate how leading innovative companies are developing distant spatial relationships in order to gain access to new critical knowledge using different strategies that are modifying the very nature of the spatial agglomeration. As new types of proximity emerge and new governance mechanisms are put in place, we argue that a new industrial and innovation policy is needed to sustain these traditional industrial agglomerations.

Technology Cities in Norway: Innovating in Glocal Networks

This paper compares learning, knowledge flows and innovation processes in the high-tech clusters in four small Norwegian cities, which are specialized in high-tech industries. It addresses how the clusters have developed historically with important national stimuli and engagement, examines what existing knowledge sources and innovation networks the high-tech firms use and are integrated in, and identifies which of these are particularly locally rooted vis-à-vis relying more on global pipelines. The paper underlines the importance of glocal (global and local) networks for the innovation capabilities of high-tech firms in small regional clusters. However, it also critically examines the concepts of glocal networks and “local buzz and global pipelines”, and argues in particular for the need to take into account some other types of proximities and spatial levels that directly and indirectly are focused by these concepts. Thus, the national level is found to be central in initiating the building of clusters in new industries, particularly in “resource thin” peripheral regions.

THE ROLE OF PROXIMITY AND KNOWLEDGE INTERACTION BETWEEN HEAD OFFICES AND KIBS

ABSTRACTThe extant literature suggests that a mutual dependency exists between head office location and the location of knowledge‐intensive business services (KIBS) in major cities and capital regions. This is often referred to as a joint head‐office–corporate‐service complex. However, few studies have looked into the functioning and outcomes of these complexes. How concentrated are KIBS and head offices in major cities? How important is geographical proximity in the knowledge interaction between head offices and KIBS? What are the actual outcomes of head office–KIBS relationships, especially as far as innovation is concerned? These issues are discussed by using empirical evidence from Norway. The empirical results indicate that geographical proximity in itself is neither a sufficient nor a necessary condition for successful relations between KIBS and head offices in cities. However, agglomeration in city regions can provide positive externalities for both parties. Other types of proximity, such as social and cognitive proximity, also play a vital role in the outcome of KIBS‐client relations. There is therefore a certain degree of heterogeneity, but not all projects lead to profound learning and innovation in the actors in this complex.

Influences of norm proximity and norm types on binge and non‐binge drinkers: examining the under‐examined aspects of social norms interventions on college campuses

Aims: Social norms interventions for reducing excessive drinking on college campuses have reported mixed results. In an attempt to understand the inconsistencies, this study examined some of the under‐examined aspects of the social norms approach.Design: A cross‐sectional survey of undergraduate students at two large mid‐western universities in the USA was conducted. Norm proximity (campus vs. friends' norms), norm types (descriptive vs. injunctive norms), and college drinker types (frequent binge drinkers, occasional binge drinkers, and non‐binge drinkers) were differentiated.Findings: The influences of friends' norms are stronger than those of campus and those of descriptive norms are stronger than injunctive norms. Friends' descriptive norms influenced frequent and occasional binge drinkers' behavior most strongly, whereas the campus descriptive norm and self‐efficacy influenced non‐binge drinkers' behavior.Conclusions: Proximity and types of norms as well as types of college drinkers will need to be distinguished in the future design and evaluation of social norms interventions.

Proximity and Localization

Torre A. and Rallet A. (2005) Proximity and localization, Regional Studies39, 47- 59. The objective of this paper is to pave the way for an analysis of the relations between proximity and localization of activities and people, two notions that are often mistaken for one another. Our method consists in exploiting the semantic wealth of the notion of proximity. We distinguish two types of proximity (geographical and organized) and propose a grid of analysis of the main models of geographic organization of activities by articulating both types of proximity. We then introduce the phenomenon of tension between geographical and organized proximity in order to discuss problems that are often underestimated in spatial economy. First, organized proximity offers powerful mechanisms of long-distance coordination that constitute the foundation of the increasing geographical development of socio-economic interactions. The confusion between information interactions and knowledge exchange, and the constraint of being lo...

Proximité et localisation

Proximity and location - The objective of this article is to pave the way for an analysis of the relations between proximity and localization. (I) We distinguish two types of proximity (geographical proximity and organized proximity) and propose a grid of analysis of the main models of geographic organization of activities by articulating both types of proximity. We then introduce the phenomenon of tension between geographical proximity and organized proximity. (II) Organized proximity offers powerful mechanisms of longdistance coordination which constitute the foundation of the increasing geographic development of socio- economic interactions. (III) We then show that there is a disjunction between the need for geographical proximity and co-localization of actors, by introducing professional mobility and temporary geographical proximity. We also emphasize the ability of big organizations to manage their presence in different whereas smaller organizations are more constrained by fixed co-localizations which are only needed for certain phases of their interactions. (IV) Finally, we raise the question of the negative effects of geographical proximity. In the case of limited support- goods, geographical proximity creates tensions between the actors who use them and tends to damage the local relations. In this case geographical proximity plays against organized proximity. However the negative externalities of geographical proximity can be limited by integrating them within organizations or institutions, that is through a re- composed organized proximity.

North Atlantic Innovative Relations of Swiss Pharmaceuticals and the Proximities with Regional Biotech Arenas

Under the pressure of increased global competition and processes of concentration, the pharmaceutical giants are reorganizing their innovative capacities. Technology and research and development (R&D) play a key role in the competitive strategies of multinational pharmaceutical companies. This article analyzes the interrelation of the far-reaching but spatially selective international expansion of R&D and technology of a major Swiss pharmaceutical company and its anchoring in regional arenas of innovation. It combines this international technological expansion with a perspective on integrating spatial and social proximities. Multinational corporations (MNCs) tend to locate their R&D activities in regions that are characterized by a richness of knowledge. The structure of inter- and intrafirm networks is shaped by the geography of talent. The Swiss pharmaceutical giants made substantial efforts to anchor themselves in regional arenas of innovation, such as the San Francisco Bay Area, Boston, and San Diego. A case study of a pharmaceutical giant’s embedding in the biotech arena of San Diego reveals how oligopolistic rivals fight over privileged access to spatially concentrated bases of technology. MNCs attempt to create, complement, and substitute spatial proximity with other types of social proximities, internal as well as external to their own organizations. These efforts contribute to the generation of specific global-local interfaces in the processes of global scanning, transferring, and generating new pharmaceutical compounds and technologies.

Multiple Proximities: Culture and Geography in the Transport Logistics of Newsprint Manufactured in Australia

Three types of proximity are argued to be present in the research material in this paper. First, put simply, geographic proximity refers to two entities being physically next to each other. Second, cultural proximity refers to two entities being relationally close to one another, with geographic proximity often not being required. Third, network proximity refers to two entities being associated through or with a third entity, again with geographic proximity often not being required. Geographies of links between entities—people, enterprises, places, etc—trace networks of relations. Geographic proximity remains crucial, but the relational spaces of geographic networks that selectively connect entities in different ways around the world are just as important. In this paper some elements from actor-network theory are used to approach the investigation of multiple proximities. The argument is exemplified through a recent case study of the restructuring of trans-port logistics of newsprint manufactured in Australia.

Predicting the Likelihood of Eurasian Watermilfoil Presence in Lakes, a Macrophyte Monitoring Tool

In regions with abundant and diverse freshwater resources, it is difficult and costly to survey all lakes at the level required to detect invasive plants. Effective allocation of monitoring resources requires tools that identify waterbodies where exotic species are most likely to invade. We developed and tested models that predict conditions in which Eurasian watermilfoil, Myriophyllum spicatum, is most likely to survive and successfully colonize. We used logistic regression to model the likelihood of M. spicatum presence or absence using a suite of biological, chemical, and physical lake characteristics which are easily obtainable from public databases. We evaluated model fit by the Aikake criterion and model performance by the percentage of misclassification errors as well as the costs associated with acquiring data for variables modeled. Several models fit our data well, misclassifying only 1.3–11.0% of the lakes where M. spicatum was observed, and used relatively inexpensive landscape variables (percent forest cover in a drainage basin, presence and type of public boat launch, and bedrock type) that typically exist as information layers in geographic information systems (GISs) or recreational atlases. We found that the most important factors affecting the presence or absence of M. spicatum were those that influence water quality factors known to impact M. spicatum growth, rather than factors associated with human activity and dispersal potential. In particular, the amount of forest cover in the lake watershed was consistently important and could control the level of dissolved inorganic carbon in lakes, one of the factors known to affect M. spicatum growth rates. Factors such as the number of game fish species and number and types of boat ramps or proximity to roads were generally less important lake characteristics. Our models can be useful tools for developing management strategies to prevent or slow the spread of M. spicatum and aquatic invaders, such as the zebra mussel, that can attach to it and thus be dispersed. Our models also exemplify a general approach for slowing or stopping the spread of other invading species.

PREDICTING THE LIKELIHOOD OF EURASIAN WATERMILFOIL PRESENCE IN LAKES, A MACROPHYTE MONITORING TOOL

In regions with abundant and diverse freshwater resources, it is difficult and costly to survey all lakes at the level required to detect invasive plants. Effective allocation of monitoring resources requires tools that identify waterbodies where exotic species are most likely to invade. We developed and tested models that predict conditions in which Eurasian watermilfoil, Myriophyllum spicatum, is most likely to survive and successfully colonize. We used logistic regression to model the likelihood of M. spicatum presence or absence using a suite of biological, chemical, and physical lake characteristics which are easily obtainable from public databases. We evaluated model fit by the Aikake criterion and model performance by the percentage of misclassification errors as well as the costs associated with acquiring data for variables modeled. Several models fit our data well, misclassifying only 1.3–11.0% of the lakes where M. spicatum was observed, and used relatively inexpensive landscape variables (percent forest cover in a drainage basin, presence and type of public boat launch, and bedrock type) that typically exist as information layers in geographic information systems (GISs) or recreational atlases. We found that the most important factors affecting the presence or absence of M. spicatum were those that influence water quality factors known to impact M. spicatum growth, rather than factors associated with human activity and dispersal potential. In particular, the amount of forest cover in the lake watershed was consistently important and could control the level of dissolved inorganic carbon in lakes, one of the factors known to affect M. spicatum growth rates. Factors such as the number of game fish species and number and types of boat ramps or proximity to roads were generally less important lake characteristics. Our models can be useful tools for developing management strategies to prevent or slow the spread of M. spicatum and aquatic invaders, such as the zebra mussel, that can attach to it and thus be dispersed. Our models also exemplify a general approach for slowing or stopping the spread of other invading species.

Innovation and Proximity

The article focuses on the relationship between technological and organizational innovation, and territories. This relationship is connected to interactions between learning processes, institutions and spatial patterns of innovative activities. Starting from a conception of the economy as a learning and evolutionary process instead of a static allocative mechanism, we analyse the role of several types of proximity in innovative processes. If one considers innovation as a problem-solving oriented process, it may be analysed as grounded on non-market inter-actions, and knowledge-based. The article shows how geographical, organizational and institutional proximities relate to the operation of localized innovation systems. The institutional framework is of particular importance in this context owing to the fact that such innovation systems are grounded on collective action at a territorial level and rely upon shared patterns of behavioural and cognitive rules. The analysis of institutional proximity raises the problems of the embeddedness of interrelations between actors in a territorial framework, and the transferability of tacit knowledge. This framework is extended to the analysis of spatial patterns in the emergence and diffusion of industrial models. In our conception, the emergence of an industrial model has territorial foundations, but it is also dependent upon an institutional learning process. However, once stabilized and diffused, its relation to geography and territories evolves and transforms. We illustrate this analysis by referring to the emergence and diffusion of industrial models in the automobile industry. Finally, the framework is used to analyse the spatial effects of organizational changes in product development. These changes are both institutional and technological.

Identité tunisienne : de la personnalité géographique d'un pays du Maghreb, du monde arabo-islamique et de la Méditerranée / Tunisian identity, the geographical characteristics of a country belonging simultaneously to the Maghreb, the Arabo-lslamic world and the Mediterranean

Tunisian identity, the geographical characteristics of a country belonging simultaneously to the Maghreb, the Arabo-lslamic world and the Mediterranean. Societal proximity, international proximity, social proximity combined with a strong centralised state superstructure, give substance to a specifically Tunisian personality which is made up of a high capacity for négociation and dialogue. The societal proximity on such a small territory was woven along the Eastern sea-board which had been urbanised in an early period. This contact zone, although not buttressed by important inland centres of power, has managed to play, along the millenia, a highly complex role of absorption of outsides influences at the same time as it imposed, through a progressive tying of the knots, a differentiated control of the constitutive elements of the territory. The modernist complexus which bears witness to Tunisia's international proximity has also developed gradually. In the 19th century, the nahdha or Arab renewal — especially through its political and social reformism — has definitely contributed to anchoring Tunisia to an endogenic process of modernisation which blossomed in the modernist a priori of the elites of the Independence period (1956). The transition in gender matters is the most praiseworthy item of this evolution as it makes Tunisia today by far the most advanced country in the Arab world in this respect. The new problems to which the country has been confronted lately are real challenges. Thanks to unmistakable economic achievements and great efforts in its social policy, the backbone of the country — the urbanised axis of the eastern seaboard — has achieved spectacular advances which testify to a high social proximity and a great capacity of regulation and governance. The differentiated treatments of the various components of the Tunisian entity meets its limits when confronted to the socio-spatial inertia in some parts of the country and international changes abroad. The economic, cultural and geopolitical environment can only be met on equal terms through a strengthening of the components of a society that upholds the values of tolerance and open-mindedness and remains faithful to its Arabic, Muslim and Mediterranean heritage as well as to modernity. These are the internal and external references which shape, along a middle of the road compromise, the Tunisian açabiyya. The highly powerful identity machinery at work in the East of the Maghreb has to respond, in the even more acute context of globalisation and aggressive international competition, to the challenges of development and social cohesion. The internal cohesion of the whole and its external connexion to the world economy depends on the minimal thresholds of the societal, international and social proximities. A high level of awareness as to the three types of proximity mentioned can ensure, as it has in the past, the periennal existence of the Tunisian identity and of Tunisia as a nation.