The OECD Innovation Microdata Project was designed to examine a range of issues relating to innovation and firm performance using a common methodology. Research teams in 20 countries used similar data cleaning methods and econometric models on their national data sets to produce harmonised tabulations of results. A series of topics of high policy interest was identified for the project’s indicator and econometric modules.

Phase 1 of the OECD Innovation Microdata Project (2007-2009) included a module on innovation indicators. The aim of this work was: (1) to compile simple innovation indicators for CIS and non-CIS countries using a harmonised approach; and (2) to develop and test new “composite” indicators using innovation survey microdata. In the context of the OECD Innovation Strategy, Phase 2 of the project (2009-2011) focused on the development of indicators that could aid in informing policy-makers on the changing nature of innovation and its relation to economic growth and social well-being.

Themes selected for econometric analysis included: the determinants of innovation and the impact on productivity; modes of innovation, including non-technological innovation; and the incentive effect of IPR on innovation.

CFA has participated in both phase 1 and phase 2 of this project on behalf of Denmark, acting as lead for all indicator work and as national participant for the econometric modules.

The results of phase 1 of the OECD Innovation Microdata Project have been published in the book Innovation in Firms: A Microeconomic Perspective (2009, OECD). Initial results of phase 2 of the project have been used in Measuring Innovation: A New Perspective (2010, OECD), which is part of the OECD Innovation Strategy. The full results of phase 2 of the project are expected to be published in 2011.

Contact person, CFA:
Research Director Carter Bloch