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Towards an inclusive measurement programme for innovation in the informal sector of South Africa

Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: In an attempt to balance the policy discussion, it is our goal in this chapter to put forward a proposal for such a measurement programme, including a tool that is standardised to the context, and share the lessons we have learnt in implementing a survey of innovation in the informal sector. The chapter firstly provides a brief overview of the history of innovation measurement with a focus on South Africa. It then goes on to discuss what would constitute a measurement programme for the informal sector in the ���What constitutes a measurement programme for the informal sectors��� section. The fourth section describes the proposal for measuring innovation in the informal sector, based on our experimentation with a novel methodology and our attempts at developing a standardised tool for the South African context. We also identify ways to begin to build the necessary institutional infrastructure. The chapter concludes with some recommendations for advancing a suitable measurement programme for innovation that includes the informal sector, as a complement to the well-established programmes for research and development (R&D) and innovation in formal businesses.
DOI: 10.14749/32363772
Language: English
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7162092359
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