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The role of makerspaces in supporting consumer innovation and diffusion: An empirical analysis

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  • Halbinger, Maria A.

Abstract

Makerspaces are open communities for tinkering, innovating, and socializing: They are equipped with tools and training that support “making” by participants. It has been argued that makerspaces can be a powerful vehicle to enhance both innovation and innovation diffusion by consumers. This research note offers initial empirical evidence for these claims. Through a survey of 558 participants drawn from makerspaces worldwide, the study shows that the innovation rate is about 53% and that the diffusion rate is about 18% among these individuals – substantially higher than the innovation and diffusion rates found in national innovation surveys of general populations, i.e. individuals who innovate independently at home at their own discretion.

Suggested Citation

  • Halbinger, Maria A., 2018. "The role of makerspaces in supporting consumer innovation and diffusion: An empirical analysis," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 47(10), pages 2028-2036.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:respol:v:47:y:2018:i:10:p:2028-2036
    DOI: 10.1016/j.respol.2018.07.008
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Consumer innovation; Commercial diffusion; Makerspaces; Collaboration; User innovation; Innovation policy;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • H5 - Public Economics - - National Government Expenditures and Related Policies
    • O3 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights
    • O4 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Growth and Aggregate Productivity

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