Digital Societies: Impact of Technology on Social Structures and Interactions

Abstract

This study examines the intricate links between technological innovation systems (TIS) and the broader "context structures" that influence them. Historically, TIS research has acknowledged various contextual influences, but we propose that the TIS framework can be significantly enhanced by adopting a more detailed understanding of TIS context structures and their interactions. To achieve this objective, we delve into four particularly significant categories of contextual frameworks: technological, sectoral, geographical, and political. By analyzing these categories, we can uncover the diverse ways in which context structures interact with and shape a focal TIS. For instance, technological advancements can drive innovation within a TIS, while sectoral contexts can provide the necessary industry-specific conditions for TIS development. Geographical contexts offer unique regional advantages or limitations that affect TIS dynamics, and political contexts can either facilitate or hinder innovation through regulations and policies. By explicitly incorporating these context structures into the TIS framework, we enhance our understanding of the complex dynamics at play. This enriched perspective provides valuable insights for analysts, helping them to identify key factors that influence TIS performance and development. Furthermore, it sets a comprehensive research agenda aimed at exploring these interactions in greater depth, ultimately contributing to more effective and context-sensitive innovation strategies.