This thesis is about shanzhai 山寨 as an innovation system. Shanzhai innovation is a phenomenon that takes place in the informal telecommunications sector in China. The production process of shanzhai...Show moreThis thesis is about shanzhai 山寨 as an innovation system. Shanzhai innovation is a phenomenon that takes place in the informal telecommunications sector in China. The production process of shanzhai mobile phones is embedded in a dynamic system of different actors that each take over a specific role in the production process. Through the network, actors acquire knowledge and information from each other and technology is shared openly. This interactive learning process accelerates the innovation process of new products and designs. The shanzhai network creates a wealth of knowledge and resources for mobile phone producers. This approach may enable businesses to grow and become innovative firms. The rapid growth of the internet company Xiaomi can be attributed to the characteristics of shanzhai innovation in their business model. To what extent shanzhai innovation can become a model for innovation will be analyzed.Show less
This thesis outlines constraints and challenges faced by informal workers in Kenya. Informal workers in relation to authorities are highlighted by particularly investigating legalities concerning...Show moreThis thesis outlines constraints and challenges faced by informal workers in Kenya. Informal workers in relation to authorities are highlighted by particularly investigating legalities concerning informal workers. Whereas the informal economy Jua Kali, is adopted in the development plans as the Kenya Vision and is argued to have the potential to drive inclusive economic growth and reduce poverty, actual regulations show the opposite of inclusion. The Nairobi City Council is restrictive towards street vendors in the urban environment and authorities are abusive towards hawkers. Obtaining a licence is costly, time consuming, and legislation of licencing is contradictory; these legalities result in many street vendors choosing informality. The similar is observed for the small-scale business sector. Legislatory problems regarding the access to finance, education, courts, and instutional problems within ministery coordination result in the increase of workers preferring employment in informality.Show less
