Abstract:
Value addition at reasonable cost leads to
competitiveness in any market and is achieved through use of
proprietary information in the form of improved technology or
effective exploitation of Intellectual Property (IP) assets.
The inability of enterprises in Kenya to compete effectively in the
market could be a consequence of the underdeveloped internal
knowledge management capabilities and this challenge may be
overcome if specific IP asset management needs are addressed. The
relationship between value chain, competitiveness and market
access in a globalized economy manifests itself in aspects which
players must master to survive; namely:-
• With the growing division of labour and the global dispersion
of the production of components, systemic competitiveness has
become increasingly important for market participation.
• Efficiency in production is a necessary condition for
successfully penetrating local or global markets.
• Entry into global markets which allows for sustained income
growth – that is, making the best of globalization - requires an
understanding of dynamic factors within the whole value chain
IP asset management-as a key component within any value chainhas
become the pillar of business in knowledge economies.
Investment in IP requires businesses to find ways to manage their
knowledge appropriately to avoid the erosion of their competitive
edge.
Systematic transfer of knowledge from research to enterprises has
been a major challenge in Kenya. Research is often not based on
industry demand; and, enterprises often do not have strategies to
commercialize new products and do not know where to get advice on
how to manage their IP. Cultural attitudes relating to the African
social ideals, beliefs and inherited business practices are also a
challenge to IP asset management. For a number of entrepreneurs,
peer recognition seems to suffice, whenever they innovate and
develop IP that could provide a market advantage as information is
often shared freely to achieve “Bragging Rights” by the innovator.
Further some entrepreneurs believe that the government owes them
more than could be realistic-in terms of infrastructure and support
services.
This paper tries to analyze IP asset management, value chain and
market competitiveness with respect to sustainability of demand
driven research.