Foreword

This report introduces the concept of knowledge networks and markets (KNMs), and discusses the new organisations and mechanisms that are emerging to share and to trade an increasing variety of knowledge-intensive assets. It describes numerous case studies of such initiatives in order to illustrate the variety of open knowledge management approaches. The report discusses the technological, economic and industrial environments that have led to the rise of KNMs, and in particular delves into advances in both computer science and knowledge valuation that could further facilitate the representation and exchange of knowledge assets. The report argues that the creation of such exchange mechanisms is an important new trend in the life sciences, and particularly in the health sector, with potentially profound influence on the innovation process. Despite the novelty of KNMs, this report identifies some early policy lessons about the role of governments in the creation and maintenance of KNMs.