The rise and fall of `Supernet': a case study of technology transfer policy for smaller firms

Abstract A dominant theme in innovation policy throughout the world has been the support of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Although policy-making has been evolving away from simplistic and `universal' measures addressing all SMEs towards more targeted approaches, there is still a lack of knowledge about the nature and extent of SME support needs and the mechanisms for delivering it effectively. The result is that the policy environment is characterised by a wide range of experimentation; this paper reports on one such experiment—Supernet—aimed at improving the access of SMEs to major centres of technological excellence in the UK. During its two and a half years of operation Supernet largely succeeded in establishing a mechanism through which SMEs could access the extensive technology base of the UK. Its limitations were less in execution (indeed, overall management of the operation was generally well-regarded) than in positioning. As a stand-alone venture it was probably too specialised a service for the needs of many SMEs (although valuable for a few) but as part of a broad spectrum of innovation support it filled an important niche, complementing other, more locally oriented types of provision, particularly those being developed by the `Business Links' network. The paper reviews the history of Supernet and explores some of the issues that its implementation raises for innovation policy. In particular, it argues that there is a need for some form of managed network enabling access for SMEs to the technology infrastructure within a national system of innovation. It concludes with some thoughts on the design and operation of such a network based on lessons offered by the Supernet experience.