Study of SME innovation in two Queensland industries

This chapter describes research in innovation in smaller SME firms in Southern Queensland, Australia. The industries selected for this study were micro manufacturing in the Darling Downs Region and domestic building constructions in South East Queensland. Results of this research and its implications for innovation in the SME industry sector are discussed. While the firms studied, and the research methodology used, were quite different in each case, it was found that there were common factors that aided and inhibited innovation in each industry. These factors have implications for SME firms in other industries. Suggestions are made in the chapter with respect to the ongoing facilitation of innovation in such firms