Contributions to Knowledge-Based Development through commons theory, using data as a common good

Abstract

Objective: Knowledge-Based Development (KBD) is a multidisciplinary scientific field based upon the endogenous value-creation process of knowledge sharing. Ostrom’s Commons Theory, in turn, explains how a community of people manages to share a common limited resource subject to social conflicts. This paper reviews the available literature on both fields and intends to answer the research question of whether and how Commons Theory may contribute to a better understanding of the field of KBD. Methodology: A qualitative analysis was made looking for similarities and differences on both, as well as other empirical studies that could bring different lenses to assist in the analysis and identify the contributions of the Commons Theory to the KBD field. Originality: The recent analysis of articles published in high-impact journals reveals the lack of connection between commons and KBD, especially smart cities, bringing relevance to research on the subject. Contributions/value: KBD brings together groups of people who share tangible and intangible resources. Ostrom's Common Theory, on the other hand, explains how a community of people can share a limited common resource subject to social conflict. This article brings together the two fields of knowledge seeking to contribute to the development of the KBD field. Findings: For the authors, the research shows that open data as new commons are important to improve the economic development of knowledge as a raw material for the development of software and applications that contribute to the development of cities, generating entrepreneurship, and contributing to innovation ecosystem.