THE DIGITAL PUSH TO THE REGIONAL SMART SPECIALISATION IN THE QUADRUPLE-HELIX FRAMES

Abstract

Contemporary digital technologies lead to globalization, help solve environmental problems, necessitate the emergence of new business models and create conditions for significant regional differences in the living standards of the population. A need arises to devise strategies for achieving a balanced and sustainable economic and social development of regions and for overcoming the existing intra-regional and inter-regional disparities. In line, the Quadruple Helix Model of innovation recognizes four major actors in the innovation system: science, policy, industry, and society. In keeping with this model, more and more governments are prioritizing greater public involvement in innovation processes. The design, building and functioning of smart regions provides the opportunity to come up with effective solutions for optimal utilization and saving of energy, reduction of the consumption of non-renewable resources, control of environmental waste, ensuring sustainable development, optimization of the efficiency of urban systems, that leads to increasing the quality of life of the populations.