A Management Innovation Model for Urban Business Ecosystems through Knowledge Exchange Mechanisms: Evidence from Learning Cities in Thailand

Abstract

This study aimed to: 1) analyze mechanisms for promoting urban business ecosystems through knowledge exchange processes in pilot learning cities in Thailand; 2) develop a management innovation model for urban business ecosystems through knowledge exchange mechanisms; and 3) propose strategic and policy recommendations for sustainably enhancing urban business ecosystems. A qualitative research methodology was employed. Data were collected from 40 key informants representing four stakeholder groups: government or local administrative organizations, business sectors, educational institutions, and communities across 10 pilot cities, with four informants from each city. Data were analyzed using content analysis, knowledge synthesis, and triangulation. The findings revealed that learning cities function as intellectual infrastructure for driving urban business ecosystems through the creation, sharing, integration, and utilization of knowledge among Quadruple Helix stakeholders. The developed management innovation model demonstrates a transition from fragmented project-based administration toward urban business ecosystem management driven by data, knowledge, and collaborative networks. Key empirical outcomes include the emergence of a national coordinating mechanism, the development of urban data hubs, learning platforms, knowledge databases, and policy decision-support dashboards for evidence-based decision-making. The study also found that learning clusters contribute to enhancing entrepreneurial capabilities and fostering new business models. Strategic and policy recommendations include establishing a central coordinating agency, developing legal frameworks for urban learning spaces, integrating data systems through Quadruple Helix collaboration, creating accessible learning platforms, and upgrading cultural capital through digital technology.