2022RP_Rotolo_Camerani_Grassano_Martin.pdf (1 MB)
Why do firms publish? A systematic literature review and a conceptual framework
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-10, 04:28 authored by Daniele RotoloDaniele Rotolo, Roberto CameraniRoberto Camerani, Nicola Grassano, Ben MartinBen MartinIn this paper, we address the question of ‘Why do firms publish scientific papers?’. Research examining the competitive advantages that firms accrue from investment in R&D has provided evidence that such efforts can be associated with the voluntary disclosure of research findings in scientific publications. This form of scientific openness occurs despite potentially undermining the value-capturing process by generating knowledge spillovers and hindering the use of other instruments for protecting intellectual property (patents and secrecy). Our understanding of what leads firms to engage in scientific publishing remains relatively limited, however. We address this gap by presenting a systematic review of 164 studies examining firm publishing. We then develop a conceptual framework that outlines five incentives for firms to engage in publishing: (i) accessing external knowledge and resources; (ii) attracting and retaining researchers; (iii) supporting IP strategies; (iv) building the firm's reputation; and (v) supporting commercialization strategies. Mechanisms that relate incentives to publish to firms' major stakeholders – i.e. academia, industry, investors, users, and institutions – are also outlined in the framework. We conclude by setting out an agenda for future research.
History
Publication status
- Published
File Version
- Published version
Journal
Research PolicyISSN
0048-7333Publisher
ElsevierExternal DOI
Issue
10Volume
51Article number
a104606Department affiliated with
- SPRU - Science Policy Research Unit Publications
Full text available
- Yes
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2022-08-12First Open Access (FOA) Date
2022-08-12First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date
2022-08-11Usage metrics
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