A Qualitative Study of Innovation Diffusion : The Novel case of a Small Firm and KTP

Abstract

Using a qualitative approach involving interviews, referring to archival documentation and observations, this research study aims to understand the actions required for diffusion of an innovation in an SME. Although the role of government intervention was little in monetary terms, the presence of a government representative was critical to ensure that the proposed plans and measures were implemented in the appropriate manner and at the appropriate time, both for the organisation and for the government. In terms of the theoretical framework’s institutional actions it can be learnt that not all actions outcomes are clearly visible. Some are tangible, whilst others are not. This implies that for innovation diffusion, there needs to be an understanding of monetary, human and other such resources to form a better understanding. For academics, this paper proffers a different perspective in terms of institutional actions for understanding technology diffusion. For industrial organisations a simple, but detailed analytical framework that can be utilised to understand technology diffusion is provided. For policymakers, this study illustrates the critical role that government plays within the SME, private sector, organisational and academic worlds.