Analysis of technological knowledge flows in the Basque Country

Abstract

Knowledge flow of technology is important for continuous growth and extension of science. Patent data analysis has facilitated this knowledge acquisition. The available patent information crosses borders, corresponds and interacts with new inventions to give new strength and dimension to the technology. Therefore, the patent citation information functions as a key indicator of the knowledge flow providing relevant information. It can be identified to which extent a region is a relevant technological knowledge generator to other regions. As an illustrative case, we present a study to determine the role played by the Basque Country region as a generator of technological innovation during the period 1991-2011.