Paul A. David and Gavin Wright
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- January 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780197263471
- eISBN:
- 9780191734786
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- British Academy
- DOI:
- 10.5871/bacad/9780197263471.003.0005
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Economic History
This chapter analyses the relationship between the diffusion of general purpose technologies (GPTs) and surges in the growth of productivity. It first explores the dynamics of GPT diffusion by ...
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This chapter analyses the relationship between the diffusion of general purpose technologies (GPTs) and surges in the growth of productivity. It first explores the dynamics of GPT diffusion by considering the generic and differentiating aspects of the US experience with industrial electrification and in comparison with that of the UK and Japan. It then discusses the analogies and contrasts between the historical case of a socio-economic regime transition involving the electric dynamo and the modern experience of the information and communications technology (ICT).Less
This chapter analyses the relationship between the diffusion of general purpose technologies (GPTs) and surges in the growth of productivity. It first explores the dynamics of GPT diffusion by considering the generic and differentiating aspects of the US experience with industrial electrification and in comparison with that of the UK and Japan. It then discusses the analogies and contrasts between the historical case of a socio-economic regime transition involving the electric dynamo and the modern experience of the information and communications technology (ICT).
Jürgen R. Grote and Achim Lang
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780199252091
- eISBN:
- 9780191599224
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199252092.003.0010
- Subject:
- Political Science, European Union
The first section of this chapter on Europeanization in relation to organizational change in national trade associations addresses the paradigm of Europeanization and business interest associations. ...
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The first section of this chapter on Europeanization in relation to organizational change in national trade associations addresses the paradigm of Europeanization and business interest associations. The second section discusses change in sectoral business associations from an ecological perspective, looking at the different strategies that organizations can use to confront external challenges. Absorption and compensation, integration, cooperation and intervention. The third and final sections of the chapter are written with particular reference to the Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) Sector and the Chemicals Sector in Germany. The third section, on change-inducing environmental factors, distinguishes between the political, economic, technological and social environments that influence the individual groups and group populations in different ways according to sector via national, European or international channels. The final section looks at change in an intra- and inter-organizational perspective, and describes the interest group populations and focal organizations dominating both sectors before looking at selected results that shed some light on the ways that leading representatives of trade associations perceive external challenges and related modifications in the application of resources.Less
The first section of this chapter on Europeanization in relation to organizational change in national trade associations addresses the paradigm of Europeanization and business interest associations. The second section discusses change in sectoral business associations from an ecological perspective, looking at the different strategies that organizations can use to confront external challenges. Absorption and compensation, integration, cooperation and intervention. The third and final sections of the chapter are written with particular reference to the Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) Sector and the Chemicals Sector in Germany. The third section, on change-inducing environmental factors, distinguishes between the political, economic, technological and social environments that influence the individual groups and group populations in different ways according to sector via national, European or international channels. The final section looks at change in an intra- and inter-organizational perspective, and describes the interest group populations and focal organizations dominating both sectors before looking at selected results that shed some light on the ways that leading representatives of trade associations perceive external challenges and related modifications in the application of resources.
John Cantwell
- Published in print:
- 2001
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780199241828
- eISBN:
- 9780191596834
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199241821.003.0016
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, International
In recent years, there has been a steady expansion in the literature that relates the internationalization of production to the development and transfer of technology by multinational enterprises ...
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In recent years, there has been a steady expansion in the literature that relates the internationalization of production to the development and transfer of technology by multinational enterprises (MNEs). The first section of this chapter discusses this, and notes the current shift of attention away from technology transfer per se, and the parallel shift in the terms in which technology is now defined and conceptualized. The latter is further addressed in the second section, which considers technology in relation to MNEs in its broadest sense of international technology creation and innovation. The third section examines the relationship between foreign direct investment (FDI) and the construction of corporate technological capabilities in the MNE, and the fourth examines intra‐ and inter‐firm international networks for technological development. The fifth section extends the discussion to the role of information and communications technology (ICT) within such international MNE networks.Less
In recent years, there has been a steady expansion in the literature that relates the internationalization of production to the development and transfer of technology by multinational enterprises (MNEs). The first section of this chapter discusses this, and notes the current shift of attention away from technology transfer per se, and the parallel shift in the terms in which technology is now defined and conceptualized. The latter is further addressed in the second section, which considers technology in relation to MNEs in its broadest sense of international technology creation and innovation. The third section examines the relationship between foreign direct investment (FDI) and the construction of corporate technological capabilities in the MNE, and the fourth examines intra‐ and inter‐firm international networks for technological development. The fifth section extends the discussion to the role of information and communications technology (ICT) within such international MNE networks.
Richard G. Lipsey
- Published in print:
- 1999
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780198296058
- eISBN:
- 9780191596209
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0198296053.003.0003
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, International
The view of globalization taken in this chapter is that it is but a subset of the immense number of structural adjustments that the world is undergoing as a result of the evolution of a related group ...
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The view of globalization taken in this chapter is that it is but a subset of the immense number of structural adjustments that the world is undergoing as a result of the evolution of a related group of new technologies usually referred to as information and communications technologies (ICT). Since the ICT revolution is causing many structural adjustments, including globalization, and since the rethinking of the role of governments is to a great extent driven by all of these structural changes, it is often hard to know what is due to globalization and what is due to other aspects of the adjustments wrought by the ICT revolution. So, the scope of this chapter is the nature of the ICT revolution, the deep structural adjustments that it is inducing, including globalization, and the rethinking of the place of the government in the economy—one major driving force of which is globalization. Sect. 2 of the chapter looks at technological and structural change in general and ends with globalization in particular, and Sect. 3 deals with what economists have traditionally regarded as the functions of the nation state. Sect. 4 develops the chapter's main theme,i.e., how technological change and globalization are altering views about the place of government in the economy and, in the process, leading to a new clash of ideologies.Less
The view of globalization taken in this chapter is that it is but a subset of the immense number of structural adjustments that the world is undergoing as a result of the evolution of a related group of new technologies usually referred to as information and communications technologies (ICT). Since the ICT revolution is causing many structural adjustments, including globalization, and since the rethinking of the role of governments is to a great extent driven by all of these structural changes, it is often hard to know what is due to globalization and what is due to other aspects of the adjustments wrought by the ICT revolution. So, the scope of this chapter is the nature of the ICT revolution, the deep structural adjustments that it is inducing, including globalization, and the rethinking of the place of the government in the economy—one major driving force of which is globalization. Sect. 2 of the chapter looks at technological and structural change in general and ends with globalization in particular, and Sect. 3 deals with what economists have traditionally regarded as the functions of the nation state. Sect. 4 develops the chapter's main theme,i.e., how technological change and globalization are altering views about the place of government in the economy and, in the process, leading to a new clash of ideologies.
Claudio Ciborra
- Published in print:
- 2004
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780199275267
- eISBN:
- 9780191714399
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199275267.003.0001
- Subject:
- Business and Management, Information Technology
This chapter discusses the main theme of this book, namely the redefinition of the agenda of information systems design, development, and management. It suggests that the information systems field — ...
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This chapter discusses the main theme of this book, namely the redefinition of the agenda of information systems design, development, and management. It suggests that the information systems field — with its rational views of knowledge, decision making, strategy, and orderly systems development — is based on a narrow model of rational, ideal actors. Passion and improvisation; moods and bricolage; emotions and workaday chores; existence and procedures will become integral to systems design and use, casting new shadows and lights on the unfolding world of technology.Less
This chapter discusses the main theme of this book, namely the redefinition of the agenda of information systems design, development, and management. It suggests that the information systems field — with its rational views of knowledge, decision making, strategy, and orderly systems development — is based on a narrow model of rational, ideal actors. Passion and improvisation; moods and bricolage; emotions and workaday chores; existence and procedures will become integral to systems design and use, casting new shadows and lights on the unfolding world of technology.
Makram Khoury-Machool
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- September 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195369212
- eISBN:
- 9780199871179
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195369212.003.0007
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society, Islam
This chapter examines the relationship between Palestinian youth, information and communication technology (ICT), and political activism. The emergence of the Palestinian information society began in ...
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This chapter examines the relationship between Palestinian youth, information and communication technology (ICT), and political activism. The emergence of the Palestinian information society began in 1995, the first year of widespread use of the Worldwide Web. Youth skilled in ICT have been pioneers in positioning post-Oslo Palestine within the newly globalized society. Universities, schools, and nongovernmental organizations have played a major role in the support of community networks and emerging forms of youth activism. Since the second Intifada, connectivity at schools and at home has become a major tool for staying informed of events, and reporting on matters that affect youths personally, or concern their friends, families, neighbors, classmates, teachers, schools, and other youth facilities. The Internet has become increasingly central to everyday Palestinian life, acting as a tool for information, commerce, recruitment, social organization, and nonviolent political activism.Less
This chapter examines the relationship between Palestinian youth, information and communication technology (ICT), and political activism. The emergence of the Palestinian information society began in 1995, the first year of widespread use of the Worldwide Web. Youth skilled in ICT have been pioneers in positioning post-Oslo Palestine within the newly globalized society. Universities, schools, and nongovernmental organizations have played a major role in the support of community networks and emerging forms of youth activism. Since the second Intifada, connectivity at schools and at home has become a major tool for staying informed of events, and reporting on matters that affect youths personally, or concern their friends, families, neighbors, classmates, teachers, schools, and other youth facilities. The Internet has become increasingly central to everyday Palestinian life, acting as a tool for information, commerce, recruitment, social organization, and nonviolent political activism.
Brian P. Bloomfield, Rod Coombs, David Knights, and Dale Littler
- Published in print:
- 1997
- Published Online:
- October 2011
- ISBN:
- 9780198289395
- eISBN:
- 9780191684692
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198289395.003.0001
- Subject:
- Business and Management, Information Technology
This introductory chapter sets out the starting-point for the Programme on Information and Communication Technology's (PICT) research on information technology (IT) and organizations, and thus ...
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This introductory chapter sets out the starting-point for the Programme on Information and Communication Technology's (PICT) research on information technology (IT) and organizations, and thus provides some of the background to the lines of argument developed in the later chapters. In contrast to the surfeit of prophesies in the area, comparatively little effort has been expended in trying to understand how the discourse on organizations and IT operates. Yet all the attempts at analysis and prediction deploy tacit models and concepts of ‘technology’ and ‘organization’. Thus, an important assumption underpinning this book is that the critical study of the development and use of IT in organizations has to start with an examination of these background assumptions and theories that govern how the relationship between technology and organizations is construed. It has to consider, for example, how technology and organization are brought together theoretically while remaining distinct objects of analysis. An overview of the subsequent chapters is also presented.Less
This introductory chapter sets out the starting-point for the Programme on Information and Communication Technology's (PICT) research on information technology (IT) and organizations, and thus provides some of the background to the lines of argument developed in the later chapters. In contrast to the surfeit of prophesies in the area, comparatively little effort has been expended in trying to understand how the discourse on organizations and IT operates. Yet all the attempts at analysis and prediction deploy tacit models and concepts of ‘technology’ and ‘organization’. Thus, an important assumption underpinning this book is that the critical study of the development and use of IT in organizations has to start with an examination of these background assumptions and theories that govern how the relationship between technology and organizations is construed. It has to consider, for example, how technology and organization are brought together theoretically while remaining distinct objects of analysis. An overview of the subsequent chapters is also presented.
William J. Drake
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- August 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780262042512
- eISBN:
- 9780262271936
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- The MIT Press
- DOI:
- 10.7551/mitpress/9780262042512.003.0009
- Subject:
- Information Science, Communications
This book explores the global governance, particularly by intergovernmental institutions, of global electronic networks and related information and communications technology (ICT). It looks at the ...
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This book explores the global governance, particularly by intergovernmental institutions, of global electronic networks and related information and communications technology (ICT). It looks at the politics underlying global rules and regulations as well as questions of power and social purpose in network or ICT global governance. It also examines governance “from above” while also emphasizing how global governance looks “from below,” particularly from the perspectives of the developing countries and civil society groups advocating public interest objectives. This chapter serves as an introduction to the discussions that follow. It provides an overview of governance mechanisms pertaining to the information, communication, and commerce distributed over electronic networks, including the frameworks for intellectual property, cybersecurity, privacy protection, and electronic commerce. It also outlines the history of network global governance from 1850 to the present and discusses some of the major global governance mechanisms relating to network infrastructure and related transport services.Less
This book explores the global governance, particularly by intergovernmental institutions, of global electronic networks and related information and communications technology (ICT). It looks at the politics underlying global rules and regulations as well as questions of power and social purpose in network or ICT global governance. It also examines governance “from above” while also emphasizing how global governance looks “from below,” particularly from the perspectives of the developing countries and civil society groups advocating public interest objectives. This chapter serves as an introduction to the discussions that follow. It provides an overview of governance mechanisms pertaining to the information, communication, and commerce distributed over electronic networks, including the frameworks for intellectual property, cybersecurity, privacy protection, and electronic commerce. It also outlines the history of network global governance from 1850 to the present and discusses some of the major global governance mechanisms relating to network infrastructure and related transport services.
Keith Pavitt
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- January 2005
- ISBN:
- 9780199263226
- eISBN:
- 9780191718847
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199263221.003.0005
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Economic Systems
Argues that the Systems Integration firms are progressively replacing the large, established manufacturing firm, described by Penrose and Chandler, as the major motor of technical change in advanced, ...
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Argues that the Systems Integration firms are progressively replacing the large, established manufacturing firm, described by Penrose and Chandler, as the major motor of technical change in advanced, high‐wage countries. This shift reflects in part the unexpected difficulties faced by large industrial firms in exploiting new technological opportunities. It also reflects the following combined effects of advances in IT and globalisation: the acceleration of offshore manufacturing, facilitated by improvements in monitoring and control, in modular interfaces, and in the transmission of codified skills; modularity; digitally‐based systems.Less
Argues that the Systems Integration firms are progressively replacing the large, established manufacturing firm, described by Penrose and Chandler, as the major motor of technical change in advanced, high‐wage countries. This shift reflects in part the unexpected difficulties faced by large industrial firms in exploiting new technological opportunities. It also reflects the following combined effects of advances in IT and globalisation: the acceleration of offshore manufacturing, facilitated by improvements in monitoring and control, in modular interfaces, and in the transmission of codified skills; modularity; digitally‐based systems.
Grahame F. Thompson
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- January 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780198775270
- eISBN:
- 9780191710513
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198775270.003.0007
- Subject:
- Business and Management, Organization Studies
This chapter extends the analysis of networks explicitly to the international sphere by addressing the whole area of information and communications technology (ICT) and networks and particularly how ...
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This chapter extends the analysis of networks explicitly to the international sphere by addressing the whole area of information and communications technology (ICT) and networks and particularly how they are argued to be radically transforming the nature of international relations, organised under the conceptual umbrella term of ‘globalisation’. The internationalisation of ‘production networks’ and how these are also argued to be recasting the nature of global economic relationships are also discussed. Both of these aspects to international networks are critically analysed. The relationship between national and international networking as well as the relationship between networks and other mechanisms of socio-economic coordination and governance is reviewed. The role of the Internet and the World Wide Web in reshaping the whole nature of domestic and international social and economic relationships is discussed, along with the notion of value chains or commodity chains as networks and the role of networks in the governance of the international system.Less
This chapter extends the analysis of networks explicitly to the international sphere by addressing the whole area of information and communications technology (ICT) and networks and particularly how they are argued to be radically transforming the nature of international relations, organised under the conceptual umbrella term of ‘globalisation’. The internationalisation of ‘production networks’ and how these are also argued to be recasting the nature of global economic relationships are also discussed. Both of these aspects to international networks are critically analysed. The relationship between national and international networking as well as the relationship between networks and other mechanisms of socio-economic coordination and governance is reviewed. The role of the Internet and the World Wide Web in reshaping the whole nature of domestic and international social and economic relationships is discussed, along with the notion of value chains or commodity chains as networks and the role of networks in the governance of the international system.
Catherine Middleton
- Published in print:
- 2013
- Published Online:
- September 2015
- ISBN:
- 9780823251834
- eISBN:
- 9780823268955
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Fordham University Press
- DOI:
- 10.5422/fordham/9780823251834.003.0001
- Subject:
- Information Science, Information Science
This chapter considers what needs to be measured when it comes to Internet and broadband access and how to measure it. Around the world, claims that broadband infrastructure is central to the ...
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This chapter considers what needs to be measured when it comes to Internet and broadband access and how to measure it. Around the world, claims that broadband infrastructure is central to the development of the knowledge economy are becoming indisputable. However, a gap exists between the discourses linking broadband deployment with the development of a knowledge-based society and the ability to deliver the desired outcomes. The chapter assesses existing information society measures like the International Telecommunication Union's ICT Development Index and the World Economic Forum's Networked Readiness Index, suggesting that while they provide a useful starting point for comparing national information and communications technology (ICT) indicators, they fail to offer sufficiently detailed metrics upon which to formulate policy related to the development and use of broadband networks. It proposes more nuanced approaches to understanding whether, and how, citizens actually benefit from access to broadband technologies, and offers suggestions for the development of new, policy-relevant metrics of ICT usage.Less
This chapter considers what needs to be measured when it comes to Internet and broadband access and how to measure it. Around the world, claims that broadband infrastructure is central to the development of the knowledge economy are becoming indisputable. However, a gap exists between the discourses linking broadband deployment with the development of a knowledge-based society and the ability to deliver the desired outcomes. The chapter assesses existing information society measures like the International Telecommunication Union's ICT Development Index and the World Economic Forum's Networked Readiness Index, suggesting that while they provide a useful starting point for comparing national information and communications technology (ICT) indicators, they fail to offer sufficiently detailed metrics upon which to formulate policy related to the development and use of broadband networks. It proposes more nuanced approaches to understanding whether, and how, citizens actually benefit from access to broadband technologies, and offers suggestions for the development of new, policy-relevant metrics of ICT usage.
Shawn M. Powers and Michael Jablonski
- Published in print:
- 2015
- Published Online:
- April 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780252039126
- eISBN:
- 9780252097102
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of Illinois Press
- DOI:
- 10.5406/illinois/9780252039126.003.0003
- Subject:
- Society and Culture, Technology and Society
This chapter examines the emergence of an Information-Industrial Complex in the United States, tracking the rise of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and the modern knowledge economy. It ...
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This chapter examines the emergence of an Information-Industrial Complex in the United States, tracking the rise of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and the modern knowledge economy. It first outlines the origins and history of Information-Industrial Complex's antecedent, the Military-Industrial Complex, before turning to the beginnings of the Information-Industrial Complex itself. It then considers how the U.S. government has cultivated a close and codependent relationship with companies involved in information production, storage, processing, and distribution, referred to as the “information industries.” It also looks at In-Q-Tel, a corporation that would “ensure that the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) remains at the cutting edge of information technology advances and capabilities,” along with the rise of information assurance after 9/11. The chapter concludes by highlighting the commodification of digital information in the post-9/11 environment through its securitization.Less
This chapter examines the emergence of an Information-Industrial Complex in the United States, tracking the rise of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and the modern knowledge economy. It first outlines the origins and history of Information-Industrial Complex's antecedent, the Military-Industrial Complex, before turning to the beginnings of the Information-Industrial Complex itself. It then considers how the U.S. government has cultivated a close and codependent relationship with companies involved in information production, storage, processing, and distribution, referred to as the “information industries.” It also looks at In-Q-Tel, a corporation that would “ensure that the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) remains at the cutting edge of information technology advances and capabilities,” along with the rise of information assurance after 9/11. The chapter concludes by highlighting the commodification of digital information in the post-9/11 environment through its securitization.
János Kornai
- Published in print:
- 2013
- Published Online:
- January 2014
- ISBN:
- 9780199334766
- eISBN:
- 9780199369416
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199334766.003.0005
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Economic Systems
The preceding discussions provided an overview of a vast area in the research in comparative economics and postsocialist “transitology.” This chapter outlines a few dimensions that were not covered. ...
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The preceding discussions provided an overview of a vast area in the research in comparative economics and postsocialist “transitology.” This chapter outlines a few dimensions that were not covered. Among these are the effect of information and communications technology on the relationship between individuals, social groups, settlements, countries, and states; the future of capitalism; and how the revolutionary change of information and communications technology affects the practical mode of running a business.Less
The preceding discussions provided an overview of a vast area in the research in comparative economics and postsocialist “transitology.” This chapter outlines a few dimensions that were not covered. Among these are the effect of information and communications technology on the relationship between individuals, social groups, settlements, countries, and states; the future of capitalism; and how the revolutionary change of information and communications technology affects the practical mode of running a business.
Chris Freeman
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780199258178
- eISBN:
- 9780191595868
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199258171.003.0009
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Development, Growth, and Environmental
This chapter argues that the phenomenon of international equality and the related problem of inequality within countries may best be understood in the light of a systematic theory of technical change ...
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This chapter argues that the phenomenon of international equality and the related problem of inequality within countries may best be understood in the light of a systematic theory of technical change and long cycles in economic growth. The first section briefly introduces the theme of widening gaps between rich and poor countries, and the next discusses the analogous problem of widening gaps in the distribution of income within countries. The third section links these problems of inequality to long‐term changes in technology and to the problems of ‘catch‐up’ by countries that have fallen behind. The fourth section relates this discussion to contemporary problems of catch‐up in information and communication technology (ICT). The final section presents conclusions and points to some important differences between the international and national dimensions of inequality.Less
This chapter argues that the phenomenon of international equality and the related problem of inequality within countries may best be understood in the light of a systematic theory of technical change and long cycles in economic growth. The first section briefly introduces the theme of widening gaps between rich and poor countries, and the next discusses the analogous problem of widening gaps in the distribution of income within countries. The third section links these problems of inequality to long‐term changes in technology and to the problems of ‘catch‐up’ by countries that have fallen behind. The fourth section relates this discussion to contemporary problems of catch‐up in information and communication technology (ICT). The final section presents conclusions and points to some important differences between the international and national dimensions of inequality.
Jan Fagerberg
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780199258178
- eISBN:
- 9780191595868
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199258171.003.0003
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Development, Growth, and Environmental
Europe's performance relative to the USA and countries in Asia is a topic that greatly preoccupies policy makers who are concerned that the European Union (EU) is losing ground compared with other, ...
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Europe's performance relative to the USA and countries in Asia is a topic that greatly preoccupies policy makers who are concerned that the European Union (EU) is losing ground compared with other, more dynamic parts of the world. This chapter points to disconcerting trends in EU performance: productivity growth has slowed down relative to competitors; export competitiveness has deteriorated in all areas except agriculture and raw materials; losses have been manifest in the technologically most sophisticated industries, particularly in ICT (information and communication technology), which requires innovation‐based growth; and a failure to create employment on a scale at all comparable with that of the USA or Japan, with obvious repercussions for unemployment. While until recently there was a tendency towards convergence in productivity and income between European regions, there are now signs of a reversal of this trend. These issues are discussed including the possible role of European economic integration in lack of market competitiveness.Less
Europe's performance relative to the USA and countries in Asia is a topic that greatly preoccupies policy makers who are concerned that the European Union (EU) is losing ground compared with other, more dynamic parts of the world. This chapter points to disconcerting trends in EU performance: productivity growth has slowed down relative to competitors; export competitiveness has deteriorated in all areas except agriculture and raw materials; losses have been manifest in the technologically most sophisticated industries, particularly in ICT (information and communication technology), which requires innovation‐based growth; and a failure to create employment on a scale at all comparable with that of the USA or Japan, with obvious repercussions for unemployment. While until recently there was a tendency towards convergence in productivity and income between European regions, there are now signs of a reversal of this trend. These issues are discussed including the possible role of European economic integration in lack of market competitiveness.
Leslie Haddon
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- July 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780719062674
- eISBN:
- 9781781700273
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Manchester University Press
- DOI:
- 10.7228/manchester/9780719062674.003.0010
- Subject:
- Political Science, Political Economy
This chapter discusses the involvement of consumers in innovation. It presents two case studies which detail a number of interesting issues regarding ways that consumers become involved in new ...
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This chapter discusses the involvement of consumers in innovation. It presents two case studies which detail a number of interesting issues regarding ways that consumers become involved in new product development or longer-term research and development in the information and communication technology sector. In some cases, consumers have been actively involved during new product development. Much more common was later involvement, in the form of product testing and evaluation of interfaces. In other cases, consumers are ‘represented’ through perceptions of consumer behaviour built up by designers and product managers. Given that many product ideas stem from awareness of technological possibilities, consumer feedback is more often in the form of reaction to product proposals rather than generating them. Even in more incremental new product development projects, the information that is collected about consumers can become marginalised relative to other considerations. This chapter concludes that there is evidence of firms attempting to learn about consumers as input to their innovation processes, but that such efforts have so far been rather underdeveloped.Less
This chapter discusses the involvement of consumers in innovation. It presents two case studies which detail a number of interesting issues regarding ways that consumers become involved in new product development or longer-term research and development in the information and communication technology sector. In some cases, consumers have been actively involved during new product development. Much more common was later involvement, in the form of product testing and evaluation of interfaces. In other cases, consumers are ‘represented’ through perceptions of consumer behaviour built up by designers and product managers. Given that many product ideas stem from awareness of technological possibilities, consumer feedback is more often in the form of reaction to product proposals rather than generating them. Even in more incremental new product development projects, the information that is collected about consumers can become marginalised relative to other considerations. This chapter concludes that there is evidence of firms attempting to learn about consumers as input to their innovation processes, but that such efforts have so far been rather underdeveloped.
Balmiki Prasad Singh
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- October 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780198060635
- eISBN:
- 9780199080250
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198060635.003.0005
- Subject:
- History, Cultural History
Indian civilization is deep-rooted and far-reaching. There were four encounters that have been seminal in Indian civilization. Each of these four civilizational encounters has deeply influenced the ...
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Indian civilization is deep-rooted and far-reaching. There were four encounters that have been seminal in Indian civilization. Each of these four civilizational encounters has deeply influenced the society, families, and individual beings and are living parts of consciousness and ways of living. The fifth civilizational encounter, encompassing all aspects of our living is the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Revolution. Based on connectivity, ICT is radically transforming production and consumption pattern; access to information; governance; and politics. As warned by Mahatma Gandhi, it is also necessary to be aware of the evils associated with machines. There are two divergent views about Mahatma Gandhi's attitude towards ‘machines’ and ‘modernization’. The comments of Rabindranath Tagore, Jawaharlal Nehru and Ernest Fritz Schumacher are chosen for further discussion.Less
Indian civilization is deep-rooted and far-reaching. There were four encounters that have been seminal in Indian civilization. Each of these four civilizational encounters has deeply influenced the society, families, and individual beings and are living parts of consciousness and ways of living. The fifth civilizational encounter, encompassing all aspects of our living is the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Revolution. Based on connectivity, ICT is radically transforming production and consumption pattern; access to information; governance; and politics. As warned by Mahatma Gandhi, it is also necessary to be aware of the evils associated with machines. There are two divergent views about Mahatma Gandhi's attitude towards ‘machines’ and ‘modernization’. The comments of Rabindranath Tagore, Jawaharlal Nehru and Ernest Fritz Schumacher are chosen for further discussion.
Alys Young and Bogusia Temple
- Published in print:
- 2014
- Published Online:
- March 2015
- ISBN:
- 9780199929535
- eISBN:
- 9780190256241
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:osobl/9780199929535.003.0008
- Subject:
- Psychology, Clinical Psychology
This chapter examines the impact of information and communication technologies (ICTs) on social research with, by, and about d/Deaf people. It first looks at technologies used by d/Deaf people and ...
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This chapter examines the impact of information and communication technologies (ICTs) on social research with, by, and about d/Deaf people. It first looks at technologies used by d/Deaf people and how common uses and new applications of ICTs affect research designs, the methods of data collection, and approaches to data analysis and publishing. It also considers how the application of new ICTs to research involving d/Deaf people is changing the nature of what and how we know, and from whom.Less
This chapter examines the impact of information and communication technologies (ICTs) on social research with, by, and about d/Deaf people. It first looks at technologies used by d/Deaf people and how common uses and new applications of ICTs affect research designs, the methods of data collection, and approaches to data analysis and publishing. It also considers how the application of new ICTs to research involving d/Deaf people is changing the nature of what and how we know, and from whom.
W. Edward Steinmueller
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- January 2005
- ISBN:
- 9780199263226
- eISBN:
- 9780191718847
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199263221.003.0008
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Economic Systems
Examines alternative theories of the technical compatibility standard‐setting process as a means of co‐ordinating component and sub‐system suppliers in complex product systems industries, ...
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Examines alternative theories of the technical compatibility standard‐setting process as a means of co‐ordinating component and sub‐system suppliers in complex product systems industries, particularly those involving software, integrated circuits, and telecommunications. These industries are chosen to illustrate the different influences of the nature and pace of technological change on the choice of institution and the governance process involved in standard‐setting. The focus of existing theories of standards governance on relative institutional efficiency will be contrasted with a theory in which the nature and pace of technical advance have a fundamental influence on institutional design and process.Less
Examines alternative theories of the technical compatibility standard‐setting process as a means of co‐ordinating component and sub‐system suppliers in complex product systems industries, particularly those involving software, integrated circuits, and telecommunications. These industries are chosen to illustrate the different influences of the nature and pace of technological change on the choice of institution and the governance process involved in standard‐setting. The focus of existing theories of standards governance on relative institutional efficiency will be contrasted with a theory in which the nature and pace of technical advance have a fundamental influence on institutional design and process.
Cheryl Bennett, Andree Woodcock, and Diane Tien
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780195179477
- eISBN:
- 9780199864638
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195179477.003.0006
- Subject:
- Public Health and Epidemiology, Public Health, Epidemiology
This chapter reviews three pressing ergonomic concerns in schools—furniture, information and communications technology (ICT), and school bags—to illustrate the role of ergonomics in promoting the ...
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This chapter reviews three pressing ergonomic concerns in schools—furniture, information and communications technology (ICT), and school bags—to illustrate the role of ergonomics in promoting the long-term health of the next generation and in making school environments safer. General physical fitness, posture, back pain, and back care are related to furniture, information and communication technology, and school bags. Ergonomic practices are often cost effective; many can be implemented through education, procedural changes, or adjustments to existing equipment or furniture.Less
This chapter reviews three pressing ergonomic concerns in schools—furniture, information and communications technology (ICT), and school bags—to illustrate the role of ergonomics in promoting the long-term health of the next generation and in making school environments safer. General physical fitness, posture, back pain, and back care are related to furniture, information and communication technology, and school bags. Ergonomic practices are often cost effective; many can be implemented through education, procedural changes, or adjustments to existing equipment or furniture.
