Day February 12, 2018

Behind the Number: A Review of Index Methodologies to Improve Innovation Measurement in Africa

[Islam Hassouna] Abstract: This paper reviews the methodologies of 16 indices in innovation, information and communication technologies, economic environment, governance, and development. It looks at the different techniques used by these indicators to aggregate data into a single number. The paper presents index structure, data, weighing of indicators, assessment, and ends with a focus on the measurement of innovation in the reviewed indices.

Study Examines Copyright Permissions Culture in Software Preservation, Implications for Cultural Record

A report released today, The Copyright Permissions Culture in Software Preservation and Its Implications for the Cultural Record, finds that individuals and institutions need clear guidance on the legality of archiving legacy software to ensure continued access to digital files of all kinds and to illuminate the history of technology. The first product of an Association of Research Libraries (ARL) project funded by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, the report is based on extensive research and interviews with software preservation experts and other stakeholders. This research will inform a Code of Best Practices in Fair Use for Software Preservation to be published in fall 2018, and to be supported by webinars, workshops, online discussions, and educational materials. The Code will advance the mission of memory institutions to safeguard the digital record and promote research that engages it.

Japan’s Emerging Role in the Global Pharmaceutical Intellectual Property Regime: A Tale of Two Trade Agreements

Authors: Belinda Townsend, Deborah Gleeson and Ruth Lopert. Abstract: This paper explores Japan’s role in reshaping the global pharmaceutical intellectual property regime by examining its position on the expansion of intellectual property rights (IPR) in negotiations for two regional trade agreements: the Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). Through systematic analysis of leaked negotiating texts documenting its positions on key issues, we demonstrate Japan is now playing a pivotal role in promoting the adoption of expanded IPRs.