Saturday, August 19, 2006
Here's a good overview of what is happening in Chicago to accelerate the development of technology-based start-ups. Read more.
People are starting to understand that innovation is best understood from the perspective of open networks. It is not really a linear process, except in the broadest characterization. Rather, innovation involves developing networks and continuously aligning the resources in these networks. These networks function in a "civic space" outside the control of any one organization.
Last week, civic leaders in Rockford, IL, just to the west of Chicago, began heading down this path. Read more.
Here's an example of the type of region we all need to be shooting for. This article outlines how bioscience entrepreneurs can get quick access to resources in North Carolina.
In an effective innovation network, there is "no wrong door". People can enter the network at any point. The network is effective, because the start-up team is only a few short steps away from the resources they need.
Regional innovation networks are "open" in that the boundaries are porous. They are focused, however, by a tight core of civic leaders who insist on results, outcomes and metrics.
posted by Ed Morrison |
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Some Background on EDPro Weblog
The purpose of this weblog is to help economic development professionals -- EDPros -- keep up with the changes sweeping our profession. Strap on your goggles. It's a whole new game. There are no experts any more. The only place to learn about economic development is from other EDPros who are doing it.
One other point: the prevaling approach (paradigm, if you like) in economic development is shifting from competition to collaboration. There are a lot of reaasons underlying this shift, but here's the important insight: You, your community, and your region will do better by collaborating and sharing information.
If you are using a news reader, here is the link to syndicate this site:
Here's the link if you are a bloglines subscriber:
Speaking and workshops on Open Source Economic Development
As the idea of Open Source Economic Development starts spreading, more people are asking about it. Visit the I-Open web site to learn more. My colleagues and I are happy to explain the basic concepts in a talk or a workshop. E-mail Susan Alshuler if you'd like to learn more about workshops and speaking.
Background on Ed Morrison
Download some background information on me here.
Chicago focuses on innovation
