1. Global leadership in
science and innovation:
introduction to the project on
international comparative evidence
on UK performance
September 2013

2. 2
Comparative evidence on UK science and
innovation performance: context
• On many measures, the UK is a global leader in science and
innovation and their contribution to the economy
• However, areas of comparative weakness exist, or could
emerge, that potentially put that leadership under threat
• In this context, BIS Knowledge and Innovation Group is
undertaking a programme of work and engagement to co-
develop a shared vision (with the higher education, science,
research, innovation and business communities) for the future
of the UK’s innovation infrastructure
• The comparative evidence project (see following slide) will
provide input (not recommendations) into this broader
programme by January 2013

3. BIS project on comparative evidence on the
UK’s science and innovation performance
Exam question Initial key issues to explore
Scope and
timing
"What does international
comparative evidence
tell us about the key
challenges we need to
address in order to
maintain and develop
the UK's global
leadership position in
science and
innovation?"
• What are the aspects of the science and innovation
system that will be most important to the UK’s
economic success in the next 10-20 years?
• What can we learn from other countries who are
currently leaders in science and innovation?
• What hypotheses about the UK’s strengths and
weaknesses should we investigate further?
• How should we measure global leadership, or
performance, in science and innovation?
• Focus on evidence gathering, analysis and synthesis, not
immediate recommendations or prescriptions
• Starting with a whole-systems approach to capture inputs,
outputs and outcomes; scope narrowed down later
• Synthesis and report back in January 2014
FormoreinformationcontactTera.Allas@bis.gsi.gov.ukorDavid.Wilson@bis.gsi.gov.uk