6. The Systems Model (NSI)

The National Systems of Innovation (NSI) perspective shows that the research process and policy change must be seen as part of a wider context. Systems of innovation (also referred to as ‘knowledge systems’) are embedded in institutional, political and economic environments. The effectiveness and impact of research will be a function of a large number of other elements of the system being in place. This implies that the nature of governance and of other elements of the enabling environment are crucial to the returns that may be expected from investments in research. There are many countries where the wider context is adverse, and where, in consequence, investment in research will not have its full potential impact on pro-poor policy change.

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