Preamble

The World Innovation Ranking (WIR) is established with the mission to evaluate and recognize the innovation performance of countries, organizations, and regions globally. This ranking is designed to foster competition, inspire progress, and provide valuable insights for policymakers, business leaders, and researchers. The

Charter ensures that the methodology is transparent, reliable, and accountable while reflecting the most relevant indicators for assessing innovation.

Article I: Purpose and Objectives

  1. Primary Purpose: The primary purpose of the World Innovation Ranking is to provide a comprehensive and standardized comparison of innovation capabilities and outcomes on a global scale.
  2. Objectives:
    • To identify and recognize the most innovative countries, regions, and industries;
    • To provide data-driven insights into the factors that drive innovation and economic growth;
    • To guide policy-making, investment, and strategic decisions based on innovation performance;
    • To promote global collaboration, exchange of knowledge, and the adoption of best practices in innovation.

Article II: Principles of the Ranking

  1. Transparency: All methodologies, data sources, and weighting systems used to determine the rankings will be openly published and made accessible to the public. Changes to the methodology will be communicated in advance;
  2. Objectivity: The ranking will be based on objective, verifiable data derived from credible sources. The process will avoid any biases in data interpretation or selection;
  3. Relevance: The criteria used for the ranking will reflect the most current and meaningful indicators of innovation in both global and local contexts. Innovation is dynamic and the ranking will adapt to include emerging trends and technologies;
  4. Accountability: The ranking organizers and contributors are responsible for maintaining the integrity and accuracy of the rankings. Any errors, inaccuracies, or disputes will be reviewed transparently.

Article III: Criteria for Innovation Ranking

  1. Input Indicators: The ranking will evaluate the following inputs, which are essential for fostering innovation:
    • Research and Development (R&D) Investment: The total expenditure by both public and private sectors in scientific research and technological development;
    • Human Capital: The quality and quantity of education systems, skilled labor, talent availability, and entrepreneurship;
    • Infrastructure: The availability of digital and physical infrastructure that supports innovation (e.g., high-speed internet, laboratories, transportation);
    • Business Environment: The regulatory framework, ease of doing business, and support for entrepreneurship and investment;
    • Government and Institutional Support: Policies and incentives that promote innovation, including tax incentives, grants, intellectual property protection, and government-backed research programs.
  2. Output Indicators: The ranking will also consider measurable outputs that demonstrate innovation success, such as:
    • Patent and Intellectual Property Activity: The number and quality of patents filed, granted, and commercialized;
    • Research and Knowledge Output: Academic papers published, research citations, and technological advancements;
    • High-Tech Exports: The volume and value of high-tech goods and services traded internationally;
    • New Business Ventures: The rate of new start-ups, particularly in emerging technologies or innovative industries.

Article IV: Methodology

  1. Data Collection: The ranking will rely on publicly available and reliable data sourced from international organizations (e.g., WIPO, OECD, World Bank), national governments, academic institutions, and recognized industry reports;
  2. Weighting System: The weight assigned to each indicator will be determined based on its relative importance in fostering innovation. A scientific advisory board may be consulted to ensure that the weighting system remains current and relevant to evolving global trends;
  3. Normalization and Aggregation: Indicators will be normalized to ensure comparability, and the final score will be computed by aggregating the weighted scores of all indicators. The final rankings will be presented from the highest to the lowest score;
  4. Review Process: The methodology will be reviewed periodically to ensure its relevance, accuracy, and inclusivity. Changes to the methodology will be communicated to stakeholders prior to implementation.

Article V: Data Integrity and Ethical Standards

  1. Accuracy and Verification: All data used for ranking will undergo a rigorous verification process to ensure accuracy and consistency. Sources will be cross-checked, and data discrepancies will be addressed transparently;
  2. Confidentiality and Privacy: The privacy of individuals, organizations, and data sources will be respected. Personal data or proprietary business information will not be included in the rankings;
  3. Avoidance of Conflicts of Interest: The ranking’s organizing body will ensure that all individuals or entities involved in the creation, maintenance, and review of the rankings are free from conflicts of interest.

Article VI: Publication and Updates

  1. Frequency of Updates: The World Innovation Ranking will be updated annually to reflect the dynamic nature of global innovation. Interim updates may be issued in response to significant developments or changes in data;
  2. Publication Channels: The rankings will be published through the World Innovation Ranking website and distributed to key stakeholders, including government agencies, businesses, research institutions, and the public;
  3. Feedback Mechanism: A system will be established to allow stakeholders to provide feedback on the ranking methodology and the results. Feedback will be reviewed and, if appropriate, incorporated into future iterations of the ranking.

Article VII: Dispute Resolution

  1. Dispute Process: Any disputes or concerns regarding the ranking or methodology will be addressed by an independent review panel. The panel will be composed of experts in innovation, data analysis, and ethics;
  2. Appeals: Entities ranked within the top 100 can formally appeal their ranking if they believe there has been an error or misrepresentation. The appeals process will be transparent and fair.

Article VIII: Final Provisions

  1. Amendments: Any changes to this Charter must be approved by the governing body of the World Innovation Ranking and communicated publicly before being enacted;
  2. Governing Body: The World Innovation Ranking will be governed by a panel of experts in innovation, economics, data analysis, and public policy. This body will oversee the implementation and continued development of the ranking;
  3. Term and Continuation: The World Innovation Ranking will be an ongoing initiative, with periodic evaluations to ensure its relevance in assessing global innovation.

Conclusion

The Charter ensures the World Innovation Ranking operates with the utmost transparency, objectivity, and fairness. By following these principles, the ranking aims to serve as a trusted tool for measuring and advancing global innovation, promoting competition, and encouraging sustainable growth and development worldwide.