The development of a nation can be influenced by a wide range of factors. In the modern era of globalization, under-developed countries must strive to catch up to developed nations and establish themselves in the global market. The Handbook of Research on Global Indicators of Economic and Political Convergence is a pivotal reference source for the latest scholarly research on social, political, and environmental variables that affect the ability of developing countries to reach an equal standing in the global economy. Highlighting theoretical foundations, critical analyses, and real-world perspectives, this book is ideally designed for researchers, analysts, professionals, and upper-level students interested in emerging convergence and divergence trends in modern countries.

The world is witnessing an increase in innovation both in start-ups and in SMEs, and the implementation of innovation is having a substantial impact on the knowledge of the economy. The ability of human beings to create new knowledge can be defined as a basic skill in a global economy, which involves learning as an essential dynamism of the competition. Following this and considering the need for developing standards and guidelines for innovation, organizations have been working on developing and updating a set of documents to help the innovators and the innovative companies work better. Knowledge-Driven Innovation in Start-Ups and SMEs: Emerging Research and Opportunities is a collection of innovative research on the methods and applications of standardization and guideline creation in business innovation, such as those implemented by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). While highlighting topics including business analysis, market research, and intellectual property, this book is ideally designed for market researchers, business professionals, academicians, and students seeking current research on innovative processes and approaches for organizations.

Since the turn of the century, technology transfer and innovation has played an increasingly important role in government policy for reinvigorating and supporting a country's industry. This has been fueled by technology transfer from third parties such as universities, but due to the rapid evolution of the external environment of technology, companies require regular upgrades to information systems and technical infrastructure and adjustments. University-Industry Technology Transfer in the UK: Emerging Research and Opportunities provides innovative insights into how technology transfer has operated in university-company projects undertaken in small- to medium-sized enterprises. Highlighting 19 different cases drawn from companies in the regions adjoining the University of Gloucestershire, UK, from a qualitative case study approach, the content within this publication analyzes contract packers, the manufacturing industry, and research organizations. It is a vital reference source for managers, business owners, education administrators, researchers, academicians, professionals, policymakers, and graduate-level students seeking coverage on topics centered on case examples of technology transfer projects in different industry sectors.

Social enterprises boost the economic landscape and benefit causes that are important to society in general. Examining the role of public policy within these small initiatives will produce more effective methods for these two avenues to work together. Influence of Public Policy on Small Social Enterprises: Emerging Research and Opportunities is a pivotal scholarly resource that provides in-depth discussion on how social enterprises are reshaping global economies. Highlighting relevant topics that include legal funding, government policies, third-sector enterprises, and procurement procedures, this reference publication is ideal for academicians, students, government officials, business managers, and researchers that are interested in staying current on the latest advances in the field of social enterprises.

The infrastructure of a country has significant effects on both the lives of its citizens and its place in international markets. As such, it is imperative to develop policies to promote the quality of a nation’s infrastructure. The Handbook of Research on Economic, Financial, and Industrial Impacts on Infrastructure Development is a pivotal reference source for the latest scholarly research on various initiatives and policies developed to enhance the current infrastructure of modern nations. Including the role of economics, finance, and multiple industry perspectives, this book covers a range of pertinent topics such as R&D initiatives, foreign direct investment, and trade liberalization, and this publication is an ideal reference source for researchers, academics, practitioners, and students interested in recent trends in infrastructure development.

One of the major tools of attaining proper development all around the world is complete financial inclusion, such that all classes of people can secure their lifestyles through access to financial services from formal sectors. Expanding access to resources and increasing self-employment opportunities help reduce poverty and improve social development. The Handbook of Research on Microfinancial Impacts on Women Empowerment, Poverty, and Inequality is an essential reference source that discusses the role of financial inclusion in gender equality, as well as economic independence and self-employment. Featuring research on topics such as inequality, collaborative economy, and social responsibility, this publication is ideally designed for policy makers, economic researchers, and academicians seeking coverage on social mobilization, capital formation, capacity building, and pro-poor economy designs.

Organizations of all types are consistently working on new initiatives, product lines, or implementation of new workflows as a way to remain competitive in the modern business environment. No matter the type of project, employing the best methods for effective execution and timely completion of the task at hand is essential to project success. The implementation of computer technology has provided further opportunities for innovation and progress in the daily operations and initiatives of corporations. Knowledge Management and Innovation in Network Organizations: Emerging Research and Opportunities is an essential scholarly resource that explores the use of information communication technologies in management models and the development of network organizations operating in various sectors of the economy. Highlighting coverage on a wide range of topics such as cloud computing, organizational development, and business management, this book is ideal for business professionals, organizational researchers, and academicians interested in the latest research on network organizations.