This book deals with some of the most important questions in innovation research such as the role of corporate governance, national systems of innovation, and government regulation in the development and adoption of innovations. In particular, it presents new evidence on the factors which shape innovation in construction by drawing on extensive interviews with construction firms across Europe. The authors offer broad lessons for the systems of innovation approach and suggest that particular structures of ownership and management, and inter-organisational relations are responsible for variations in the economic performance of the construction industry in different European countries. The particular challenges posed by the adoption of sustainable technologies such as natural thermal insulation and active solar heating systems are also explored. These environmental innovations are expected to have an impact on sustainable building and regeneration, and at a more general level can help identify the factors which can facilitate or inhibit the innovation process. Importantly, the book does not simply focus on the relationship between technology, firm organisation and competitiveness, but also considers the social and institutional aspects which affect the construction sector's ability to innovate. The extensive case studies from 5 European countries allow the reader to analyse innovation performance from an international comparative perspective. Innovation in Construction represents an important contribution to the theoretical debate on innovation. It will be highly useful to scholars and students interested in innovation studies, environmental management, and construction management and economics.

There is a long-standing tradition of research that highlights the importance of differences in the organizational and technological capabilities of firms and their effect on economic performance. This book expands on this theme by exploring the role of knowledge and innovation in firm strategy and industrial change. Underlying the volume is the belief that firms have distinctive methods of operation and that these processes have a strong element of continuity. The authors examine the role played by firms in developing, linking and utilizing the knowledge produced in many different social institutions in order to advance their organizational and technological skills. They demonstrate how understanding the manner in which firms enhance their capabilities is essential for recognizing how the economy operates and changes as a whole. To help illuminate the crucial role of knowledge and innovation, the authors use international data and insightful case studies of firms from throughout the world. These include biotechnology in Portugal, oil in Scotland, telephone/internet banking in France and Sweden, and fuel cell development in the US and Europe. This broad-ranging book will be of immense worth to scholars and students in the fields of innovation, R&D management, technology management, organization studies and industrial innovation.