Title: A knowledge-based development model for primate cities of the developing world

Authors: Paul G.C. Hector; Jean-Louis Ermine; Vincent Ribiere; Alex Bennet

Addresses: Telecom Business School, 9 Rue Charles Fourier, 91000, Evry, France; IKI-SEA, School of Business, Bangkok University, Rama 4 Road, Klong-Toey, 10110, Bangkok, Thailand ' Telecom Business School, 9 Rue Charles Fourier, 91000 Evry, France ' IKI-SEA, Bangkok University, Rama 4 Road, Klong-Toey, 10110, Bangkok, Thailand ' Mountain Quest Institute, 303 Mountain Quest Lane (Frost), Marlinton, WV 24954, USA; IKI-SEA, Bangkok University, Rama 4 Road, Klong-Toey, 10110, Bangkok, Thailand

Abstract: This paper presents the conceptual development and piloting of a knowledge-based development model for primate cities. Using UNESCO's knowledge societies conceptual framework, the study extends this framework by substantiating relationships between the framework's components, intellectual capital, knowledge processes and macro-level sustainable development goals (economic, environmental, social as well as peace/security dimensions). An international Delphi panel of experts in the fields of knowledge management, knowledge cities and urban planning, validated the knowledge-based development model derived from the framework. Empirical field pilots were conducted with the model in primate cities in Ethiopia and Thailand to assess the relevance of the model and to explore what insights and guidance it could provide policy-makers. The model identified key resources and critical areas where policy interventions are needed. Feedback from respondents contributed to the model's improvement. A K-SWOT policy dialogue further demonstrated the model's potential for supporting decision-making.

Keywords: Addis Ababa; Bangkok; Delphi method; design science research; developing countries; intellectual capital; knowledge-based development; knowledge cities; knowledge economy; knowledge societies; primate cities; United Nations; UNESCO; urbanisation; 2030 sustainable development goals.

DOI: 10.1504/IJKBD.2018.096424

International Journal of Knowledge-Based Development, 2018 Vol.9 No.4, pp.386 - 419

Received: 08 Nov 2017
Accepted: 09 Feb 2018
Published online: 28 Nov 2018 *

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