Research paper understanding- L2 Empirical patterns

Question 1

Define product innovations

Answer 1

Product innovations are technological advances in the nature and types of products produced.

Question 2

Define process innovtions

Answer 2

Process innovations are technological advances in the techniques used in production (types of machinery, layout of the factory, raw material and management methods).

Question 3

Name the authors and the title of paper

Answer 3

Vickery G and Northcott J (1995) - Diffusion of Microelectronics and Advanced Manufacturing Technology: A Review of National Surveys. Economics of Innovation and New Technology, 3: 253-275

Question 4

What were the research questions asked?

Answer 4

1. what are the general patterns, impacts and obstacles to diffusion of a major group of new technologies (Microelectronics and AMT)?
2. How can surveys help to explain diffusion of a new technology and what are the empirical results from them?

Question 5

What was the motivation of the paper?

Answer 5

Microelectronics and AMT have a considerable impact, thus it’s interesting to measure how the product/process innovations diffuse.

Question 6

What were the main findings of the paper?

Answer 6

• S-shape curve, lack of awareness and scope slow diffusion down.
• Diffusion tends to start with larger firms and there’s a major difference across industries as some lack expertise. Also economic and technical factors differ too.
• For 2nd question, surveys should be standardized and can provide important insights for regulators.