Mapping the service sector
The service sector is an important driver of the economy in Europe. While both public and private services have been studied in length, they have rarely been examined together, something which could reveal more about their drivers, dynamics and impacts. The EU-funded project 'The contribution of public and private services to European growth and welfare, and the role of public-private innovation networks' (Servppin) analysed the two categories to understand their impact on the welfare of society and on economic growth. It conducted an in-depth study of service innovation and public-private innovation networks focusing on how they create and deliver new and improved services. The project investigated interactions between the public and private sector, focusing on improving performance for both. It undertook theoretical and empirical research by country and sector, with case studies related to health, transport and knowledge-intensive services. Servppin also compiled numerous case studies that shed light on the relationship between the public and private sector. The research and case studies yielded valuable new knowledge and a deeper understanding of how services function, as well as enhanced policy recommendations. All this will support businesses and policymakers in offering better services and improving the standard of living. Overall, the project gave way to a strong knowledge framework on the service economy, innovation of services and implementation of relevant networks. The emerging knowledge and pivotal case studies were presented in key conferences and released to the scientific community at large. Project efforts could lead to new synergies between the public and private sectors, as well as improved services for citizens across Europe.