Simulating Innovation: Computer-Based Tools for Rethinking Innovation

Christopher Watts and Nigel Gilbert explore the generation, diffusion and impact of innovations that can now be studied using computer simulation models. Agent-based models, in particular, offer explanations for the phenomena of innovation that emerge from interactions among complex, adaptive and diverse networks of firms, people, technologies, practices and resources. This book provides a critical review of these recent advances. Elements explored include the diffusion of innovations, social networks, organisational learning, science models, science and technology studies, technological evolution and innovation networks.