Prospects of TIS Research Riding a dead horse or the start of a new blossoming period?

The approach of technological innovation systems (TIS) represents one of the most productive lines of research in the field of transition studies. Over the past twenty years, a large body of empirical evidence and a whole... [ view full abstract ]

The approach of technological innovation systems (TIS) represents one of the most productive lines of research in the field of transition studies. Over the past twenty years, a large body of empirical evidence and a whole series of new conceptual extensions have been elaborated. The TIS panel will focus on major challenges in this field. In particular, we want to focus on the changing industrial realities and societal expectations, which will impact sustainability oriented industry dynamics over the coming decade. The last twenty years witnessed the promotion of a number of green innovations mostly restricted to OECD countries. Today, we are increasingly confronted with the maturation of corresponding industries, and a globalization of the associated value chains. Policy making is challenged by these new realities. We see two alternative strategies for TIS scholars: “Riding a dead horse” means that there is a risk of getting stuck by trying to repeat old successes with established approaches. A new “blossoming period” is more likely if TIS research will proactively address these new realities. The panel will be set-up as a controversy between three contenders and two solicitors. Opponents will formulate core challenges for TIS studies: Responding to the “Grand Challenges”, overcoming conceptual weaknesses and incorporating spatial dimensions into TIS dynamics. Solicitors will respond to the challenges identified before an open discussion will be started. In the end, we will ask the plenary to vote on the prospects of TIS research for the coming years.