6 INNOVATION
6.1 Introduction
The ABS has recently conducted an innovation survey for the calendar year 2003. The survey includes technological, organisational and managerial innovation in a wide range of industries, including service industries. The survey is compatible with OECD/Eurostat guidelines, as outlined in the "Oslo Manual (Innovation)". This Manual is available as a free PDF file by visiting www.oecd.org.
6.2 Current state of innovation related statistics
Much of the material described in this Update relates to innovation in one way or another. The ABS previously conducted surveys of innovation activities for the 1996-97 and 1993-94 reference periods. Such innovation data provide a direct measure of the degree to which Australian businesses are innovating. The focus of ABS work on innovation will be relating such activity to its impact on productivity and growth performance.
6.3 What is an 'innovation survey'?
An innovation survey is a survey of businesses which ascertains what proportion and types of businesses are innovating (ie. introducing new products and processes), what types of innovations are occurring and what impact they are having on the output and productivity of the businesses concerned.
Other issues to be addressed include the:
- costs of innovation
- extent of linkages between firms and higher education institutions
- links between innovation and management practice
- links between innovation and growth/productivity outcomes
- sources of funding
6.4 Timing
The results from the 2003 Innovation survey are expected to be available 3 February 2005. For further information, please contact Glyn Prichard at glyn.prichard@abs.gov.au.
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