Ó Riain, Seán (1997) An Offshore Silicon Valley? The emerging Irish Software Industry. Competition and Change, 2. pp. 175-212.

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Abstract

This paper assesses the development potential of local inter-firm networks in Newly Industrializing Countries. This is done through an analysis of the role of such networks in the growth of the software industry in the Republic of Ireland. Transnational software companies located in Ireland developed extensive local supply networks. Local social networks and a local culture of innovation contributed to the growth of an indigenous software development sector. While local networks can generate significant competitive advantage for a region they are inevitably internationalized as successful firms organize globally or as the region attracts further foreign investment. Corporations utilize local networks to solve problems of cost, control and innovation management in the globalization of production and corporate organization.While fostering local networks can be an effective public policy, it is not sufficient for development. The role of the state in supporting, guiding and bargaining with local firms in these networks remains a crucial aspect of development strategy.

Item Type:	Article
Keywords:	Silicon Valley, Irish Software Industry, Inter-firm networks,
Academic Unit:	Faculty of Social Sciences > Sociology
Item ID:	556
Depositing User:	Prof. Sean O Riain
Date Deposited:	24 Aug 2007
Journal or Publication Title:	Competition and Change
Refereed:	Yes
URI:	http://www.maney.co.uk/search?fwaction=s...
Use Licence:	This item is available under a Creative Commons Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Licence (CC BY-NC-SA). Details of this licence are available here

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