Knowledge inflows and outflows in collaborative spaces. The study of makerspaces in Central European countries

Abstract

In recent years, a multitude of novel work environments have developed throughout Europe. Among these is the makerspace (MS), a new kind of collaborative space that fosters a do-it-yourself ethos. In its nature, MS has the potential to facilitate strong knowledge interactions. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to examine the significance of local knowledge inflows and outflows from and to MSs in the selected Central European countries, including the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Poland. Instead of the conventional examination of intra-MS knowledge flows, the authors investigate external knowledge flows and typologies of their spatial scales within the context of an exploratory research approach. Furthermore, the paper examines the underlying causal conditions that facilitate local knowledge interactions. To this end, the authors conducted 22 in-depth interviews and carried out three case studies of various MSs. A fuzzy-set qualitative content analysis (fsQCA) was employed to ascertain the potential determinants of stronger local interactions. It has been determined that local knowledge ecosystems are developing within MSs operating in both metropolitan and non-metropolitan regions. Establishing global pipelines is not a prerequisite for MS success, particularly in non-metropolitan areas, where it may be superseded by national or local buzz.