Science and Technology Parks as Complex Systems
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15170/MM.2025.59.04.06Keywords:
innovation ecosystem, science park, technology park, complex system, complexity theoryAbstract
THE AIM OF THE PAPER
Empirical research on science and technology parks, which is common among them, often analyzes
various problem areas while researching the park actors. Less common is the type of research that
examines the entire park as an ecosystem, i.e. at the system level. The aim of this research is to
examine whether science and technology parks are suitable for complex systems. After a literature
review, empirical research on the topic is presented. The research examined evolutionary, structural,
operational and management complexity using ten aspects.
METHODOLOGY
Following the literature review, the empirical research conducted on the topic is presented. The
authors examine evolutionary, structural, operational, and governance complexity using ten criteria.
The method presented in the study makes it possible to determine in which areas and to what extent
a given park can be considered complex.
MOST IMPORTANT RESULTS
The analysis showed that science and technology parks, taken as a whole, can be considered
complex from evolutionary, structural, or operational perspectives. It was confirmed that science
and technology parks can be regarded as complex systems along multiple dimensions. The study
highlights the dimensions that are most relevant from a complexity perspective.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Its practical significance lies in the fact that, by understanding the properties of complex systems,
park management organizations can provide more adequate responses to the complex challenges
of today.
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