Functional analysis as a design tool for regional innovation systems in the European Union

One of the main priorities for the European Union is the development of policies which contribute to narrowing the differences between different regions. Functional Analysis (FA) is an interesting design methodology for the development of Regional Innovation Systems (RIS). According to the UNE-EN 1325-1: 1996 Standard, FA is the process which sets out the different functions and relationships between them and which then systematically characterises, classifies and weights them. The end goal of FA is the calculation of value indexes (VIf). In order to calculate VIf, the steps laid out in the value analysis methodology (UNE EN 12973: 1996) shall be followed, identifying the RIS functions and, using the relevant matrixes, calculate the percentage importance of the concepts making up the VIf formula. The optimum value will be given in value indexes closest to one unit. Based on the initial objectives of the project and the interpretation of the value indexes that are obtained, the starting criterion will be chosen so as to proceed to the innovation and improvement stage, concentrating efforts on those functions which present the largest imbalance