Innovation Activities of Contractor Firms in Slovak Forestry
2015
Štěrbová Martina
Innovations are one of the most important economic and business phenomena of our times. In economic theory they are considered as the major driver of economic development and growth, and help turning ideas and knowledge into products and services. They also have got their own place and importance in the forestry service sector. The aim of the research was to analyse innovation behaviour and innovation potential of contractor firms in the market of forestry services in Slovakia, in the first place in the area of timber harvesting and transport, The analysis of innovation behaviour was based on research in firms drawn from a database of enterprises by random. The information sources were provided by people responsible for their management, by filling out a prepared questionnaire. The analysis of innovation potential was assessed by case studies, which contain interviews with the innovators and the best practice innovations. The results of the study indicate low innovation activity and high innovation potential in the sector of forest services. The main obstacles for adoption and application of innovations are lack of own financial sources, high investments and operating costs and tax load. On the other hand, offer of loans, cooperation and support from public and EU sources appeared as the most important fostering factors for innovations.
Показать больше [+] Меньше [-]