An analysis of the scientific and technological output of the Spanish Information and Communication Technologies industry

This study presents a general view of the scientific and technological production in the ICT sector of the industry in Spain during the period 1996-2000 and its relative weight in the national production, through bibliometric techniques, with the aim of exploring the character of its outputs, both in terms of publications and patents, focusing the attention on the position and contribution of Spanish ICT scientific and technological capabilities. Indicators at macro-meso level are presented by: geographic region, thematic areas and enterprises. Results about scientific activity in companies show a very short commitment to R+D, low number of patents, scarce participation in international publications, as well as insufficient interaction between public and private sectors. Scientific production comes basically from I public sector (Universities and CSIC), while the technological activity is located in very few enterprises which patent mainly in the Spanish office. A closer look into Spanish regions reflects a high concentration in Madrid and Catalonia in publications; nevertheless, Navarra and Basque Country stand out in patents. Results reflect that Industry is not taking advantage of the public sector research efforts for its development.