The world is becoming increasingly more globalised. That is a big and subtle force often demanding national and local harmonisation. Traditional industrial sectors moves from the western hemisphere to other parts of the world. The need for future oriented, explorative and innovative ideas and studies is immanent. In Sweden and other modern societies there is often a strong belief in reform, that it is possible to change societal structures, processes and ideologies from above by introducing new ideas and financing R & D.

This book presents a wide range of approaches to the study of local development and creative industries. Seven authors’ presents a volume organised in three parts. Part I offers empirical studies on a growing experience economy, and also heritage, design and Factor 10 as a resource for development. Part II offers a methodological study on narrative as a force for company development. This part also offers reflections on interactive knowledge and however development is a prerequisite for innovation. Part III covers current conceptual and theoretical reflections on localisation, regionalisation and globalisation, neo-institutionalism and symbolic aspects of policy.

Innovation, Triple Helix and the creative industries are often presented as a panacea for local development from above. Rarely has it been shown to be a wave of success. Simple answers to complex problems often houses logical error, which means that everyday development projects often results in errors. This volume aims to illustrate an empirical, methodological and theoretical agenda for local development from the bottom and partially implement a new and interactive role of researchers.