Knowledge management as the key prerequisite of research and innovation unity

One of the key prerequisites for the successful development of knowledge-based economy is the unity of scientific research and the practical implementation of results (innovation processes). The article maintains that the main methodological principles ensuring this unity are the following: setting research priority areas, development of organizational structures ensuring the unity of research and innovation, enhancement of research and innovation funding mechanisms, and management optimization of these processes. In setting research priority areas it is especially important that objective criteria are chosen. The article proves that the most significant criteria are the economical strategy, natural resources, scientific potential of the country as well as general changes in global science development. The most important element in the development of organizational structures ensuring the unity between research and innovation is the establishment of the national research and innovation system. The most effective way to enhance funding of this unity is a rational combination of direct budget and private sector funding with indirect fiscal and catalytic financial means. In order to improve the management of research and innovation processes, a special attention should be given to creation and development of modern forms of administration (network, spherical, matrix structures, spin-off companies, clusters, etc.). The article emphasises that only systematic and integrated application of all proposed measures can produce the desired results in ensuring research and innovation unity, therefore the implementation of this prerequisite is of the utmost importance for the development of knowledge-based economy.