An exploratory analysis of networking, R&D and innovativeness in the Spanish electronics sector

Using survey data of electronics firms in the three major electronics clusters in Spain, we examine whether those engaged in networking tend to be more innovative and whether local and extra-regional networking have different effects upon innovativeness. We find a positive relation between different types of network relations and innovativeness. In particular, our findings suggest that subcontracting relationships are a way of exchanging technological know-how and are a potentially important element in the innovation process. With regard to the spatial extent of network relations, we find only weak results for differences between local and extra-regional networking.