Restoring the Innovative Edge Driving the Evolution of Science and Technology [Hardcover]

Considerable evidence indicates that the U.S. is falling behind when it comes to innovation. In part, this shift stems from the globalization of research and the advancement of other nations. But, it also arises from a widespread failure to adapt to the competitive environment generated by the evolution of science and technology.The objective of this book is to provide possible remedies for eight key obstacles that the U.S. faces in restoring its innovative edge. Understanding that these remedies are complex, each chapter also discusses the dilemmas and impediments that make change a challenge. Unlike other books that suggest simple fixes to the U.S. innovation crisis, this book argues that the management of innovation requires multiple interventions at four different levels: in research teams, organizations, economic and non-economic sectors, and society at large.Restoring the Innovative Edgeoffers specific recommendations for new forms of data collection, fresh ideas about cooperation between the public and the private sectors in manufacturing research, and a policy evaluation model that measures technical progressand obstacles to itin real time. Moreover, the book's multi-level perspective allows for the integration of a number of specialties within Sociology and Management around the theme of a new socio-economic paradigm, built on ideas of evolution and failed evolution. Jerry Hage presents thorough and insightful descriptions of the organizational elements that promote scientific discovery and innovation. Of particular interests are the clear outlines of practical steps for building an organization for innovation; specific examples of highly effective innovative teams; and details on how private-public partnerships can be pro-competitive in rapidly changing technology sectors. Jerry Hage also makes it clear throughout the book that more relevant and timely metrics are necessary inputs into the innovation process. Concerned about the U.S. losing its l-