This collection of studies develops the concept of national systems of innovation, to understand the relationship between national policy objectives, public and private institutions within which innovation takes place, and their performance.

In the light of increased discussion of technology policy by all major industrial countries, this volume presents the state of the debates and institutional change in the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union and Canada. It goes on to present studies of the major changes taking place in these countries, with regards to the adoption of new technology, and the reorganization of institutions to suit these changes.