A new blog has been set up to prompt debate on the future of Cambridge's Silicon Fen as it reaches a critical point in its evolution. The Cambridge Technopole blog is edited by Dr Tim Minshall of the University of Cambridge Institute for Manufacturing.

Dr Minshall outlined three issues underpinning the launch of this blog: "Firstly, the global economic downturn is having a direct impact on the start-up, growth, and retention of companies within the cluster.

"Secondly, we are approaching some key milestones in the evolution of the cluster such as the 50th anniversary of the start-up of Cambridge Consultants and the 40th anniversary of the opening of the Cambridge Science Park.

"Thirdly, we are seeing changes in several key organisations within the cluster as well as the launch of many new initiatives. The convergence of these three issues points to a need to reflect on how the next generation of successful companies can best be supported in Cambridge."

Dr Minshall, who also sits on the board of St John's Innovation Centre, said he hoped the blog would act as a useful platform for discussion of ideas on the future direction of the cluster.

Topics raised and discussed on the blog will feed in to the latest version of the Cambridge Technopole Report, an annual review of the key organisations and activities within the high tech cluster (www.ifm.eng.cam.ac.uk/research/ctm/ctmresearch/te/cambridge-technopole).

The blog will also include invited contributions from individuals reflecting the diversity of views throughout the cluster.

The University of Cambridge’s Institute for Manufacturing (IfM), is a division of the Department of Engineering. The IfM brings together expertise in management, economics and technology to address the full spectrum of industrial issues.

Its activities integrate research and education with practical application in companies, providing a unique environment for the creation of new ideas and approaches to modern industrial practice.

The IfM works closely with industry, at a regional, national and international level, providing strategic, technical and operational expertise to help companies to grow and to become more competitive. This work brings benefits to both parties. Industry receives practical solutions based on the latest applied research. The university receives live feedback to help set the agenda for new research.
 

Tim Minshall joined the Centre for Technology Management in October 2002 as a University Lecturer in Technology Management.

He is a member of the Board of St John's Innovation Centre. Before joining the Centre, he was a Project Manager and Board Member at St John's Innovation Centre Ltd where he worked on a series of projects to support industry / academic collaboration focused around new technology ventures.

Two of his main projects were support for the setting up and early management of the University of Cambridge Entrepreneurship Centre (now Cambridge Enterprise and the Centre for Entrepreneurial Learning) and the management of the 'Developing Entrepreneurs' project. This project led to the formation of the 'Enterprise Link' networking group for new technology ventures, the production of the 'Cambridge Technopole Report', the formation of the Cambridge Technopole Group, and the publication of the 'Funding Technology' report series.
 

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