Determinants of innovation cooperation for manufacturing SMEs: evidence from a systematic review of the literature (1992-2015)

Abstract

This paper summarises a comprehensive and systematic review of 29 quantitative studies from peer-reviewed journals published in ranked publications between 1992 to 2015 on the determinants of innovation cooperation for manufacturing SMEs. Applying a documented methodology, it crystallises acquired knowledge by identifying, synthesising and discussing 220 unique determinants stemming from a vast and heterogeneous body of literature. The article introduces an analytical framework integrating different perspectives to approach this concept presenting a holistic and integrated view of the topic. It provides a typology that sorts the determinants into six categories: 1) environmental characteristics; 2) industrial characteristics; 3) organisational characteristics; 4) individual characteristics; 5) partnership characteristics; 6) project characteristics. This systematic review also identifies current gaps in the literature. The provided research perspectives will allow researchers and policymakers to better foster innovation and guide researchers addressing this phenomenon in the future. It clearly lays a foundation for future research on the topic, organising and building upon the literature that has been published so far.