This article reviews empirical and conceptual material from two distinct research
traditions: on the science-technology relation and on industrial innovation. It aims both
to shed new light on an old debate—the distinction between scientific and technological
knowledge—and to refine our conceptualizations of the knowledge used by companies
in the course of research and development leading to innovation. On the basis of three empirical studies, a composite categorization of different types of knowledge used in
innovation is proposed, as part of a broader framework encompassing two further
taxonomic dimensions. It is hoped that this typology and framework might provide useful
research tools in furthering our understanding of the knowledge transfers and transformations that occur in the course of innovation. It could also prove useful for organizations
and groups facing difficult strategic choices about technology.
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