pedro conceicao - Academia.edu (original) (raw)
Papers by pedro conceicao
Journal of Engineering and Technology Management, 2002
Large, successful firms, even with a history of innovation, may create organizational mechanisms ... more Large, successful firms, even with a history of innovation, may create organizational mechanisms that hamper innovation and customer response. This paper will describe how 3M purposefully fights this tendency by attempting to foster innovation within the company through the development of efficient strategies to commercialize technology in rapidly changing environments. The paper will describe 3M’s general policies and its entrepreneurial culture, which are largely well publicized in the popular literature. But the focus will be on on-going strategies to accelerate the commercialization of technology in its electronic business. Specifically, the case of the Electronic Markets Center (EMC), a 3M Electronic and Communications Group unit created in 1997 to leverage the broad range of 3M’s electronic products and technologies will be described and analyzed. Fifteen business units were organized around one single entity to more effectively ensure an overall coordinated strategy for 3M in the electronics market that could change the growth rate of 3M’s sales to the electronic industry from 9% per year to 24% per year. The paper will focus on two critical components of the EMC: (1) what were the strategies behind the design of EMC; (2) how did EMC developed processes to manage the interdependence of the technical and business understanding of industry segments and the relations with key accounts. The paper concludes with lessons learned from the 3M experience thus far, and with recommendations on how to fight some of the barriers to innovation and technology commercialization in large firms.
Third World Quarterly, 2009
Dramatic food price increases affected much of the developing world in 2008. Even as food prices ... more Dramatic food price increases affected much of the developing world in 2008. Even as food prices have begun to relax in 2009, this trend is highly uneven across countries, and in many countries local food prices remain high relative to past levels. Furthermore, the challenge of addressing the root causes of the global food crisis remains. This paper contributes to the policy discussions in this area by offering a preliminary diagnostic of the possible factors behind the global food crisis that erupted in 2008. Some are more immediate and possibly short-term in nature, such as the volatility in the commodities markets arising from short-term financial speculation. Others, however, are going to or have already started to affect countries' food security in the medium to longer term. These include rising and changing patterns of consumption in fast-growing and large developing countries like China and India, the possibly increasing trade-off between biofuels and food, and the unfolding effects of climate change. Keeping in mind the possible structural features of the global food landscape from here on, the paper outlines a framework for policy actions, both unilateral and collective, to address the food crisis and ensure future global food security.
SSRN Electronic Journal, 1999
This paper discusses the implications of the decomposition property of the Theil index in sequenc... more This paper discusses the implications of the decomposition property of the Theil index in sequences of nested and hierarchic grouping structures, formalizing general results applicable to a generic sequence of grouping structures. A specific application to data on wages and employment by industrial classification to measure the evolution of wage inequality through time will be explored, analyzing the links between Theil indexes computed at different levels of n-digit SIC codes. A dynamic analysis shows the extent to which a between group Theil statistic tracks the evolution of inequality within industries, and estimations are provided as to the amount of information gained by using ever more disaggregated grouping structures to assess the dynamics of overall inequality. The empirical illustration provides a monthly time-series for industrial earnings inequality in the US is computed at 2, 3 and 4-digit SIC codes from January of 1947 to March of 1999. 8 J J Nested and Hierarchic Grouping Sequence with Three Levels: J J -Highest Level Grouping Structure: k goes from 1 to m J J -Middle Grouping Structure: For each group k, j goes from 1 to mk J J -Lowest Grouping Structure: For each group j, i goes from 1 to mkj J J -Individual Level: In each group i, there are mkji individuals J J J Income and Individuals at Each Level: J J -Income at the Individual Level: Ykjip J J J -Income for Group i: -Individuals in Group i: J J J J -Income for Group j: -Individuals in Group j: J J J J J -Income for Group k: -Individuals in Group k: J J J J -Total Income: J | | J J -Total Population: J J
SSRN Electronic Journal, 2000
Growing interest in inequality has generated an outpouring of scholarly research and has brought ... more Growing interest in inequality has generated an outpouring of scholarly research and has brought many discussions on the subject into the public realm. Surprisingly, most of these studies and discussions rely on a narrow set of indicators to measure inequality. Most of the time a single summary measure of inequality is considered: the Gini coefficient. This is surprising not only because there are many ways to measure inequality, but mostly because the Gini coefficient has only limited success in its ability to generate the amount and type of data required to analyze the complex patterns and dynamics of inequality within and across countries. Often, in defense of the use of the Gini coefficient, it is argued that this popular indicator has a readily intuitive interpretation. While from a formal point of view most measures of inequality are closely interrelated, at an intuitive level this interrelationship is rarely highlighted. This paper suggests an intuitive interpretation for the Theil index, a measure of inequality with unique properties that makes it a powerful instrument to produce data and to analyze patterns and dynamics of inequality. Since the potential of the Theil index to generate rich data sets has been analyzed elsewhere , here we will focus on the intuitive interpretation of the Theil index and on its potential for analytical work. The discussion will be accompanied throughout with empirical applications, and concludes with the description of a simple software application that can be used to compute the Theil index at different levels of aggregation of the individuals that compose the distribution. alternatives to the objective measures are what Sen calls normative measures of inequality, which have imbedded some notion of social welfare. Normative measures of inequality include, in some sense, an ethical evaluation of some kind, while objective measures, in themselves, are "ethically" neutral. Objective measures of inequality employ statistical and other types of formulae that account for the relative variation of income among individuals or groups of people.
We use industrial data to derive estimates of the pattern of change in wage inequality in Mexico ... more We use industrial data to derive estimates of the pattern of change in wage inequality in Mexico and Brazil. Using the group decomposition of Theil's T statistic we present monthly series of measurements of change in the dispersion of industrial wages for Brazil (1976 through 1995) and for Mexico (1968 through 1997). Both countries show increases in wage dispersion over time, and we find a strong negative correlation with the rate of real economic growth, suggesting that real per capita income growth is important in the determination of movements in inequality. Heterodox plans seem to reduce inequality in the short-run.
Review of Development Economics, 2000
We use industrial data to derive estimates of the pattern of change in wage inequality in Mexico ... more We use industrial data to derive estimates of the pattern of change in wage inequality in Mexico and Brazil. Using the group decomposition of Theil's T statistic we present monthly series of measurements of change in the dispersion of industrial wages for Brazil (1976 through 1995) and for Mexico (1968Mexico ( through 1997. Both countries show increases in wage dispersion over time, and we find a strong negative correlation with the rate of real economic growth, suggesting that real per capita income growth is important in the determination of movements in inequality. Heterodox plans seem to reduce inequality in the short-run.
SSRN Electronic Journal, 2000
Technovation, 1998
The role of intellectual property protection in strengthening the preservation of the institution... more The role of intellectual property protection in strengthening the preservation of the institutional integrity of universities is discussed. The analytical context is provided in terms of a technology transfer model that represents the interactions between universities and the market. The analysis is presented with the background of New Growth Theories, which explore the impact of knowledge in wealth creation. As a consequence, the various elements that are to be considered in the decision to protect intellectual property in universities are discussed, and policy implications for universities are derived. The key idea relates to the rationale for undertaking technology transfer initiatives at universities, which we regard as a complement to traditional types of research, and as an effort to clarify the role of the university.
Higher Education Policy, 2000
Following a model that conceptualizes the functioning of the university, a set of principles to d... more Following a model that conceptualizes the functioning of the university, a set of principles to de®ne a public funding methodology for the research universities is proposed, within the context of the Portuguese higher education system. This set of principles is presented on the basis of the analysis of the contemporary mission of the university, giving particular relevance to the research activities that are developed at universities. The positioning of research universities in the science and technology system is valorized, and the set of principles aims at contributing to develop a science policy that gives to the university the relevant role that is required in the emerging knowledge-driven economies. 7
Science & Public Policy, 1999
Argues for changes in the traditional way of viewing economic growth and questions the role that ... more Argues for changes in the traditional way of viewing economic growth and questions the role that contemporary institutions, specifically universities, play in this process. Shows, empirically, the increasing importance that knowledge is assuming in economic activity in developed countries. Outlines a new conceptual approach to economic growth, in which the accumulation of knowledge acts as the fundamental driving force. Describes new economic growth theories, laying out principal concepts relevant to an analysis of the present-day role of the universities. Examines the role of the university in the context of knowledge-based economies. Concludes that while the role of the university is of renewed importance, its institutional integrity must be preserved through a strengthening of its ability to create and disseminate knowledge.
Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 1998
As there is an increasing perception on the importance of knowledge creation and distribution for... more As there is an increasing perception on the importance of knowledge creation and distribution for economic prosperity, what kind of role should universities play? Which public policies are more effective in promoting this role? These are the fundamental questions this paper aims to address. The objective is to try to understand what are the expectations for the role of the universities in developed countries under a public policy perspective. More specifically, we discuss what are the public policies that can promote, and those that can hinder, a positive and cumulative role of universities in the knowledge based economies. We begin, in section 1, by introducing the general theme of the paper. Section 2 systematizes the economic relevance of knowledge using recent advancements in the so-called new growth theories.
Higher Education Policy, 1998
Following a system of indicators, a public funding methodology for the universities is proposed. ... more Following a system of indicators, a public funding methodology for the universities is proposed. This methodology is based on a formula and lies on the principle of differentiating universities amongst themselves according to the indicators previously defined. These indicators were developed in order to promote academic excellence in terms of the current understanding of the mission of the university. The result is a funding methodology aiming at leading the university to the prominent role that is required in the emerging knowledge-based economies and societies.
Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 2002
This paper draws on recent conceptual approaches to economic growth, in which the accumulation of... more This paper draws on recent conceptual approaches to economic growth, in which the accumulation of knowledge is the fundamental driving force behind growth. This fact is reflected in the trend in developed economies towards an increasing investment in advanced technology, R&D, education, and culture. Concepts such as learning ability, creativity, and sustained flexibility gain greater importance as guiding principles for the conduct of individuals, institutions, nations, and regions. It is thus legitimate to question the traditional way of viewing the role that contemporary institutions play in the process of economic development and to argue for the need to promote systems of innovation and competence building based on learning and knowledge networks. This broad concept has motivated the work behind the present work, which reviews the strongest themes of the 4th International Conference on Technology Policy and Innovation (ICTPI), which was held in Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil, in August of 2000. Under the broad designation of ''learning and knowledge networks,'' the conference brought together a range of experts to discuss technology, policy, and management in a context much influenced by a dynamics of change and a necessary balance between the creation and diffusion of knowledge. While the idea of inclusive development developed in previous conferences entails a process of shared prosperity across the globe following local specific conditions, it is crucial to understand the dynamics of the process of knowledge accumulation, which drives a learning society. Thus, this special issue includes a set of extended contributions to the Curitiba conference that are largely grounded on empirical experiences of different regional and national contexts. The aim of this introductory paper is to set the stage for these contributions, with an original contribution on possible views for the learning society. D
This paper presents evidence that, over a two year period, innovating leads to productivity losses:
As the importance of knowledge creation and diffusion is increasingly recognized as a major drive... more As the importance of knowledge creation and diffusion is increasingly recognized as a major driver of economic growth, questions are starting to emerge on how to establish the conditions that foster the processes of knowledge sharing across countries at different levels of development. Under the broad designation of "knowledge for inclusive development," these questions defined one of the strongest themes of the 2 nd International Conference on Technology Policy and Innovation (ICTPI), which was held in Lisbon in August of 1998. While the idea of inclusive development entails a process of shared prosperity across the globe following local specific conditions, it is crucial to understand both the features of knowledgeinduced growth in rich countries, as well as the challenges and opportunities for late-industrialized and less developed countries. Thus, this special issue includes a set of extended contributions to the Lisbon conference that are largely grounded on empirical experiences of both developed and developing countries. The aim of this introductory paper is to set the stage for these contributions, with an original contribution on possible roles for science and technology policy in promoting inclusive development.
Journal of Engineering and Technology Management, 2002
Large, successful firms, even with a history of innovation, may create organizational mechanisms ... more Large, successful firms, even with a history of innovation, may create organizational mechanisms that hamper innovation and customer response. This paper will describe how 3M purposefully fights this tendency by attempting to foster innovation within the company through the development of efficient strategies to commercialize technology in rapidly changing environments. The paper will describe 3M’s general policies and its entrepreneurial culture, which are largely well publicized in the popular literature. But the focus will be on on-going strategies to accelerate the commercialization of technology in its electronic business. Specifically, the case of the Electronic Markets Center (EMC), a 3M Electronic and Communications Group unit created in 1997 to leverage the broad range of 3M’s electronic products and technologies will be described and analyzed. Fifteen business units were organized around one single entity to more effectively ensure an overall coordinated strategy for 3M in the electronics market that could change the growth rate of 3M’s sales to the electronic industry from 9% per year to 24% per year. The paper will focus on two critical components of the EMC: (1) what were the strategies behind the design of EMC; (2) how did EMC developed processes to manage the interdependence of the technical and business understanding of industry segments and the relations with key accounts. The paper concludes with lessons learned from the 3M experience thus far, and with recommendations on how to fight some of the barriers to innovation and technology commercialization in large firms.
Third World Quarterly, 2009
Dramatic food price increases affected much of the developing world in 2008. Even as food prices ... more Dramatic food price increases affected much of the developing world in 2008. Even as food prices have begun to relax in 2009, this trend is highly uneven across countries, and in many countries local food prices remain high relative to past levels. Furthermore, the challenge of addressing the root causes of the global food crisis remains. This paper contributes to the policy discussions in this area by offering a preliminary diagnostic of the possible factors behind the global food crisis that erupted in 2008. Some are more immediate and possibly short-term in nature, such as the volatility in the commodities markets arising from short-term financial speculation. Others, however, are going to or have already started to affect countries' food security in the medium to longer term. These include rising and changing patterns of consumption in fast-growing and large developing countries like China and India, the possibly increasing trade-off between biofuels and food, and the unfolding effects of climate change. Keeping in mind the possible structural features of the global food landscape from here on, the paper outlines a framework for policy actions, both unilateral and collective, to address the food crisis and ensure future global food security.
SSRN Electronic Journal, 1999
This paper discusses the implications of the decomposition property of the Theil index in sequenc... more This paper discusses the implications of the decomposition property of the Theil index in sequences of nested and hierarchic grouping structures, formalizing general results applicable to a generic sequence of grouping structures. A specific application to data on wages and employment by industrial classification to measure the evolution of wage inequality through time will be explored, analyzing the links between Theil indexes computed at different levels of n-digit SIC codes. A dynamic analysis shows the extent to which a between group Theil statistic tracks the evolution of inequality within industries, and estimations are provided as to the amount of information gained by using ever more disaggregated grouping structures to assess the dynamics of overall inequality. The empirical illustration provides a monthly time-series for industrial earnings inequality in the US is computed at 2, 3 and 4-digit SIC codes from January of 1947 to March of 1999. 8 J J Nested and Hierarchic Grouping Sequence with Three Levels: J J -Highest Level Grouping Structure: k goes from 1 to m J J -Middle Grouping Structure: For each group k, j goes from 1 to mk J J -Lowest Grouping Structure: For each group j, i goes from 1 to mkj J J -Individual Level: In each group i, there are mkji individuals J J J Income and Individuals at Each Level: J J -Income at the Individual Level: Ykjip J J J -Income for Group i: -Individuals in Group i: J J J J -Income for Group j: -Individuals in Group j: J J J J J -Income for Group k: -Individuals in Group k: J J J J -Total Income: J | | J J -Total Population: J J
SSRN Electronic Journal, 2000
Growing interest in inequality has generated an outpouring of scholarly research and has brought ... more Growing interest in inequality has generated an outpouring of scholarly research and has brought many discussions on the subject into the public realm. Surprisingly, most of these studies and discussions rely on a narrow set of indicators to measure inequality. Most of the time a single summary measure of inequality is considered: the Gini coefficient. This is surprising not only because there are many ways to measure inequality, but mostly because the Gini coefficient has only limited success in its ability to generate the amount and type of data required to analyze the complex patterns and dynamics of inequality within and across countries. Often, in defense of the use of the Gini coefficient, it is argued that this popular indicator has a readily intuitive interpretation. While from a formal point of view most measures of inequality are closely interrelated, at an intuitive level this interrelationship is rarely highlighted. This paper suggests an intuitive interpretation for the Theil index, a measure of inequality with unique properties that makes it a powerful instrument to produce data and to analyze patterns and dynamics of inequality. Since the potential of the Theil index to generate rich data sets has been analyzed elsewhere , here we will focus on the intuitive interpretation of the Theil index and on its potential for analytical work. The discussion will be accompanied throughout with empirical applications, and concludes with the description of a simple software application that can be used to compute the Theil index at different levels of aggregation of the individuals that compose the distribution. alternatives to the objective measures are what Sen calls normative measures of inequality, which have imbedded some notion of social welfare. Normative measures of inequality include, in some sense, an ethical evaluation of some kind, while objective measures, in themselves, are "ethically" neutral. Objective measures of inequality employ statistical and other types of formulae that account for the relative variation of income among individuals or groups of people.
We use industrial data to derive estimates of the pattern of change in wage inequality in Mexico ... more We use industrial data to derive estimates of the pattern of change in wage inequality in Mexico and Brazil. Using the group decomposition of Theil's T statistic we present monthly series of measurements of change in the dispersion of industrial wages for Brazil (1976 through 1995) and for Mexico (1968 through 1997). Both countries show increases in wage dispersion over time, and we find a strong negative correlation with the rate of real economic growth, suggesting that real per capita income growth is important in the determination of movements in inequality. Heterodox plans seem to reduce inequality in the short-run.
Review of Development Economics, 2000
We use industrial data to derive estimates of the pattern of change in wage inequality in Mexico ... more We use industrial data to derive estimates of the pattern of change in wage inequality in Mexico and Brazil. Using the group decomposition of Theil's T statistic we present monthly series of measurements of change in the dispersion of industrial wages for Brazil (1976 through 1995) and for Mexico (1968Mexico ( through 1997. Both countries show increases in wage dispersion over time, and we find a strong negative correlation with the rate of real economic growth, suggesting that real per capita income growth is important in the determination of movements in inequality. Heterodox plans seem to reduce inequality in the short-run.
SSRN Electronic Journal, 2000
Technovation, 1998
The role of intellectual property protection in strengthening the preservation of the institution... more The role of intellectual property protection in strengthening the preservation of the institutional integrity of universities is discussed. The analytical context is provided in terms of a technology transfer model that represents the interactions between universities and the market. The analysis is presented with the background of New Growth Theories, which explore the impact of knowledge in wealth creation. As a consequence, the various elements that are to be considered in the decision to protect intellectual property in universities are discussed, and policy implications for universities are derived. The key idea relates to the rationale for undertaking technology transfer initiatives at universities, which we regard as a complement to traditional types of research, and as an effort to clarify the role of the university.
Higher Education Policy, 2000
Following a model that conceptualizes the functioning of the university, a set of principles to d... more Following a model that conceptualizes the functioning of the university, a set of principles to de®ne a public funding methodology for the research universities is proposed, within the context of the Portuguese higher education system. This set of principles is presented on the basis of the analysis of the contemporary mission of the university, giving particular relevance to the research activities that are developed at universities. The positioning of research universities in the science and technology system is valorized, and the set of principles aims at contributing to develop a science policy that gives to the university the relevant role that is required in the emerging knowledge-driven economies. 7
Science & Public Policy, 1999
Argues for changes in the traditional way of viewing economic growth and questions the role that ... more Argues for changes in the traditional way of viewing economic growth and questions the role that contemporary institutions, specifically universities, play in this process. Shows, empirically, the increasing importance that knowledge is assuming in economic activity in developed countries. Outlines a new conceptual approach to economic growth, in which the accumulation of knowledge acts as the fundamental driving force. Describes new economic growth theories, laying out principal concepts relevant to an analysis of the present-day role of the universities. Examines the role of the university in the context of knowledge-based economies. Concludes that while the role of the university is of renewed importance, its institutional integrity must be preserved through a strengthening of its ability to create and disseminate knowledge.
Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 1998
As there is an increasing perception on the importance of knowledge creation and distribution for... more As there is an increasing perception on the importance of knowledge creation and distribution for economic prosperity, what kind of role should universities play? Which public policies are more effective in promoting this role? These are the fundamental questions this paper aims to address. The objective is to try to understand what are the expectations for the role of the universities in developed countries under a public policy perspective. More specifically, we discuss what are the public policies that can promote, and those that can hinder, a positive and cumulative role of universities in the knowledge based economies. We begin, in section 1, by introducing the general theme of the paper. Section 2 systematizes the economic relevance of knowledge using recent advancements in the so-called new growth theories.
Higher Education Policy, 1998
Following a system of indicators, a public funding methodology for the universities is proposed. ... more Following a system of indicators, a public funding methodology for the universities is proposed. This methodology is based on a formula and lies on the principle of differentiating universities amongst themselves according to the indicators previously defined. These indicators were developed in order to promote academic excellence in terms of the current understanding of the mission of the university. The result is a funding methodology aiming at leading the university to the prominent role that is required in the emerging knowledge-based economies and societies.
Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 2002
This paper draws on recent conceptual approaches to economic growth, in which the accumulation of... more This paper draws on recent conceptual approaches to economic growth, in which the accumulation of knowledge is the fundamental driving force behind growth. This fact is reflected in the trend in developed economies towards an increasing investment in advanced technology, R&D, education, and culture. Concepts such as learning ability, creativity, and sustained flexibility gain greater importance as guiding principles for the conduct of individuals, institutions, nations, and regions. It is thus legitimate to question the traditional way of viewing the role that contemporary institutions play in the process of economic development and to argue for the need to promote systems of innovation and competence building based on learning and knowledge networks. This broad concept has motivated the work behind the present work, which reviews the strongest themes of the 4th International Conference on Technology Policy and Innovation (ICTPI), which was held in Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil, in August of 2000. Under the broad designation of ''learning and knowledge networks,'' the conference brought together a range of experts to discuss technology, policy, and management in a context much influenced by a dynamics of change and a necessary balance between the creation and diffusion of knowledge. While the idea of inclusive development developed in previous conferences entails a process of shared prosperity across the globe following local specific conditions, it is crucial to understand the dynamics of the process of knowledge accumulation, which drives a learning society. Thus, this special issue includes a set of extended contributions to the Curitiba conference that are largely grounded on empirical experiences of different regional and national contexts. The aim of this introductory paper is to set the stage for these contributions, with an original contribution on possible views for the learning society. D
This paper presents evidence that, over a two year period, innovating leads to productivity losses:
As the importance of knowledge creation and diffusion is increasingly recognized as a major drive... more As the importance of knowledge creation and diffusion is increasingly recognized as a major driver of economic growth, questions are starting to emerge on how to establish the conditions that foster the processes of knowledge sharing across countries at different levels of development. Under the broad designation of "knowledge for inclusive development," these questions defined one of the strongest themes of the 2 nd International Conference on Technology Policy and Innovation (ICTPI), which was held in Lisbon in August of 1998. While the idea of inclusive development entails a process of shared prosperity across the globe following local specific conditions, it is crucial to understand both the features of knowledgeinduced growth in rich countries, as well as the challenges and opportunities for late-industrialized and less developed countries. Thus, this special issue includes a set of extended contributions to the Lisbon conference that are largely grounded on empirical experiences of both developed and developing countries. The aim of this introductory paper is to set the stage for these contributions, with an original contribution on possible roles for science and technology policy in promoting inclusive development.