Introduction to the Volume

Many countries in the world embarked on the path of globalisation during the last three decades. This period witnessed rising world trade, international flow of capital and other resources, as well as growing knowledge and technology sharing among developed and emerging economies. One of the reasons for the speed of globalisation during this period is the advances in technology. In particular, the developments in information and communication technologies (ICT) have enabled the emergence of small and medium high-tech firms and contribute to innovations, improve efficiency and reduce costs. They could network with large corporations and collaborate. Researchers have pointed out that knowledge building, innovation and scientific–technological advance are the critical ingredients for economic growth and competitive advantage in the contemporary world. However, the knowledge building processes, especially in science and technology, requires continuous decisions and actions on the part of the innovator as well as those engaged in the search process. The papers included in this edited volume examine this dimension and highlight the changing technological objectives of firms in the era of globalisation. Most of the firms in developing countries are adjusting themselves to the growing demand for dynamism in their technological efforts to stay competitive.