by Harm Hofman, duurzaam heiloo
In the evolving landscape of innovation, the traditional Triple Helix model—encompassing government, business, and academia—has long been a cornerstone for fostering collaboration and driving progress. However, with the rapid advancement of digital technologies and the increasing emphasis on citizen engagement, there’s a compelling need to revisit and potentially expand this framework. This evolution prompts critical questions: Can the integration of the citizenry, forming a Quadruple Helix, enhance the efficacy of innovation systems? How does this expanded model compare to existing sociological theories, such as Parsons’ AGIL scheme, which outlines the necessary functions for societal stability? Moreover, is the traditional Triple Helix model adaptable to smaller communities lacking academic institutions, like the Alkmaar region with the Reformers Flagship? Evaluating its applicability is essential for effective implementation and stakeholder engagement in the ongoing energy transition.
What is the Triple Helix?
The Triple Helix model describes the interplay between three key components of an innovative society:
credits: Rebecca Hueting – copyright REFORMERS 2024
Collaboration between these three is crucial to the development of knowledge and the innovation of new products in science.
Expanding to the Quadruple Helix
The Quadruple Helix model adds citizens (the public) to the original Triple Helix model. This expands participation and collaboration. But how does this translate into:
- Engage stakeholders through a sociological model;
- Analysing communities;
- Achieving concrete action plans.
Figure 1 – Parsons reference scheme
AGIL Scheme by Parsons: The Foundation
The AGIL scheme (Adaptation, Goal Attainment, Integration, Latency) is a theory developed by Talcott Parsons, offering a sociological perspective on how social systems function. The basis of this model traces back to Kant’s philosophy, further elaborated by Habermas and Luhmann. The AGIL scheme provides a solid sociological foundation for understanding social systems and decision-making.
Why the AGIL Model Works for Smaller Regions
In smaller regions without large-scale international innovation, where the presence of universities and companies is limited, the AGIL model can be a more effective consulting and research tool than the Triple or Quadruple Helix models. It offers a deeper sociological perspective, helping to understand the underlying structures within a community.
Figure 2 – copyright REFORMERS 2025
The Challenge of the Quadruple Helix: Social and Scientific
Involving citizens in the innovation process requires a more sociological approach. The measurement of publications and scientific output, commonly used in science and business, is less applicable when involving the public as actors. A new scientific operationalisation and approach is needed.
Figure 3 – copyright REFORMERS 2025
Conclusion: Which Model is Best for Your Region?
For regions with international innovation and large companies: the Triple Helix model is highly effective, with the AGIL scheme serving as a supplemental advisory tool for the region itself
- For smaller regions without an international university: the AGIL scheme offers a stronger and more profound practical research and advisory instrument than the other models.
Invitation:
Come visit our website and learn how the Triple Helix, Quadruple Helix, and the AGIL scheme can help shape the future of innovation and decision-making in your region.
Date: 28-11-2024
Website: https://reformers-energyvalleys.eu/
If you want to discover more, contact us at: info@reformers-energyvalleys.eu
Related Resources:
- Democracy, engagement and the energy transition
- The Quadruple Helix: theoretical arguments for a small EU Reformers region like Alkmaar
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