The structural and functional analysis of innovation systems: outline of the Polish case

One of the major factors of Polish competitiveness - low-cost labour - has been eroded by the accession of newer European Union members wherein labour can be even twice as cheap. In the context of these circumstances and the changing nature of globalisation, in order for the Polish economy to enhance its competitiveness, it should be based on development of science, technology, and knowledge - the driving forces behind the innovative potential of modern economies. This paper deals with a structural and functional analysis of innovation systems, which allows identification of problems occurring within a system. Empirical research on the Polish innovation system leads to identification and evaluation of main actors, institutions, cooperation networks, and infrastructure supporting innovative activities. Several phenomena that inhibit the progress of Polish economic transformation towards an economy based on science, technology, and knowledge are then identified.