Is the Silicon Valley Model the only Model?

The good thing about doing research prior to a facilitating engagement is that you get to understand that most of the issues you thought to be new aren't actually new and not only that, you find out that you're not the only one getting into the same discussions. There is actually some discussions about the Silicon Valley in Australia. If you just disregard who's talking, you'd think we're actually talking to the same people here.

You can go browse their discussions here:
http://abc.net.au/science/wings/episode2.htm

A paper by Masahiko Aoki done in Stanford University dissected the phenomenon he called Silicon Valley Model and how the dynamics work in Silicon Valley. This is also interesting reading. You can download the paper from the URL below:
http://www.wider.unu.edu/publications/dps/dps2002/dp2002-11.pdf

Another paper "Information and Governance in the Silicon Valley Model" can supplement Masahiko Aoki's paper above. Go to this URL:
http://www-econ.stanford.edu/faculty/workp/swp99028.pdf

In his book, "Rice Bowl & Chips", Dennis Posadas looking at Asian adaptation of the Silicon Valley Model has pointed out eight (8) rules that seem to apply to make the model work:

1. There must be a critical mass of brilliant engineers and scientists, venture capital, key suppliers and other players needed in technology venture formation.
2. There must be a university or research institute that does research and development at par with the rest of the world, and publishes and/or patents its results to gain recognition for its achievements.
3. There must be stories of successful entrepreneurs that are handed down from generation to generation.
4. Culture is an important key to innovation.
5. Proximity is very important.
6. Those living abroad and at home must organize themselves to exchange ideas regularly, help mentor startups, and help with policy.
7. A good financial and legal framework for startups should be available.
8. Realize that failure is an important learning opportunity.

The book is a good starting point of any discussion on the Silicon Valley Model. I really hope Dennis Posadas can make it to the summit to talk more about the model. You should get a copy of his book. I bought 3 copies.