What is "technopole"

Technopole refers to a center of high-tech manufacturing and information-based quaternary industry. The term was coined by Allen J. Scott in 1990 to describe regions in southern California which showed a rapid growth in high technology fields. This term now has a broader scope to describe regions worldwide dedicated to technological innovation.

Technopoles may be developed by the private sector or by the co-operation or partnership between the public and private sectors. Governments of all levels promote them as a panacea for economies hurt by economic restructuring. Large corporations and small business operate within these high technology areas. Networking between companies is important and made possible by technological advances. Technopoles are combined technological and business centers specifically established around recognized educational and research institutes.

There are several definitions for "technopole" in an international context, whereby focus is usually placed on the existence of four factors:

• First, a critical mass of R&D facilities which carry out research in one or more relevant areas and which have established the appropriate infrastructure.
• Second, the immediate spatial vicinity to university institutions is essential in order to link research to instruction.
• The third criterion is the presence of competent companies as source of demand for R&D competence and "users" of know-how generated at the Technopole on the international market.
• Finally, there must be sufficient interest to provide investments to enable technology-oriented start-ups and spin-offs.

Factors important to investors include:

• Good buildings and building sites
• An attractive environmental setting
• Excellent highway access and proximity to an international airport
• Excellent international tele-communication facilities
• Good quality housing for managers and,
• Easy access to a substantial pool of well trained and motivated labour

Technopoles are also vulnerable to global trends and can dissolve quickly if they are not properly supported. Technopoles have to be flexible and willing to experiment with new ideas to be seen as a global competitor. Governments and corporations tend to continue to heavily invest in technopoles in hopes of gaining economic prosperity.