In addition to R&D, firms may acquire technology and know-how in a number of forms and from a variety of sources in connection with the development and implementation of innovations, particularly for product or process innovation. This innovation activity includes the acquisition of rights to use patents and non-patented inventions, licences, disclosures of know-how, trademarks, designs and patterns from other enterprises and institutions such as universities and government research institutions, other than R&D. Acquisition of external knowledge may also include computer services and other scientific and technical services for product and process innovations activities.
OECD and Eurostat (2005), Oslo Manual: Guidelines for Collecting and Interpreting Innovation Data, §323-325.