5.4 Measuring Innovation Comparing the measuring of “Innovation” to measuring “Research” Universities are very good at measuring “research”. Data are collected on research outputs such as publication units, higher degrees awarded, etc. Data are also collected on research inputs, such as students registered, grants awarded, etc. and research impact, such as citations, prizes and awards, etc. The performance of the “research ecosystem” can also be measured. These research-related metrics is used in universities and nationally to benchmark, incentivise, subsidise and reward research-active universities. Collecting and analysing the relevant data is relatively easy and transparent. How possible is to measure “Innovation” in a similar manner and for similar purposes? There is a substantial body of literature covering this topic. However, there is no “standard” set of measures of “Innovation” and so these will need to be developed and adopted.
Some guiding principles In moving towards the adoption of a measurement framework for “Innovation” at Wits we will suggest some guiding principles as part of this “Strategic Plan for Innovation”. Part of the Plan is to undertake an exercise that will develop, pilot and refine a measurement framework for “Innovation” at Wits. The following Table sets out the proposed guiding principles.
What is being measured?
Guiding Principles
Inputs
Innovation starts with problems and opportunities being identified. New knowledge derived from research also creates a possible Input
Examples of data that can be collected ▪
▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪
# of research outputs (papers, theses, etc) with “innovation potential” # of R&D contracts # of discoveries and patents Amount (R) of Funding for innovation # of events to promote innovation # of participants at such events
Outputs
Tangible and intangible outputs of the innovation process
▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪
Number of Products Processes Policies Start-ups / spinouts
Impact
Impact derived from innovation activities
▪ ▪ ▪ ▪
Revenue earned Jobs created Media coverage received Prizes and awards
Performance of the Wits Innovation Ecosystem
How well does the Wits Innovation Ecosystem perform? Sub-ecosystems can also be measured and compared
▪
See below.
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