Regional observatory of technology-theoretical framings and practical implementation: Case study

The paper presents the concept of the Regional Observatory of Technology (ROT)-its theoretical grounds and practical implementation by the Network of Regional Specialized Observatories (NRSO) in Slaskie region, Poland. The concept of a technology observatory is seldom implemented at a regional level. Its primary purpose is to provide knowledge concerning the value of the selected technologies and support for policy makers and business stakeholders. The Technology Assessment (TA) provides the national economies with practical methods related to technology evaluation, whereas ROT is related to the technological needs of the regional business sector and conditions of the regional R&D sector. The author highlights the role of NRSO that necessitates the form of the strategic regional documents as well as its function in the operational activities. Until the beginning of 2020 NRSO has participated in the preparation of the Technology Development Program- A regional document diagnosing the development of technologies used by the regional industries. Since 2019, NRSO has been actively participating in the process of updating the Regional Innovation Strategy for Silesian Voivodeship. Eight technological areas of key importance for the regional development have been identified and analysed based on the network activity. The NRSO may be perceived as a knowledge management system for different kinds of organisations operating at a regional level but using global information in order to obtain global competitive advantage. The NRSO analyses and diagnoses the development of technologies in the selected technological areas but also fosters the exchange of tacit knowledge between the actors of the regional innovation ecosystem. The value of the paper introduces a critical approach to the NRSO features and provides some recommendations concerning the general model of the Regional Observatory of Technology (ROT). This contribution could be useful for the regional policy makers . ,.