Distretti, piccole imprese e sapere diffuso nei sistemi produttivi della meccanica

This contribution provides an analysis of the conditions that have fostered innovation in systems of small business in Italy, with particular reference the mechanical industry. A specific aspect described in the paper is the link between vertical disintegration of production processes and networks of competences in systems of small business. It will highlight regional and sectoral differences that have characterized the dynamics of these production systems. The main conditions that made possible the building of the commons for the benefit of the development and innovation are discussed: high quality education and widespread social value of work, even in technical tasks, entrepreneurship. With regard to the transformation in the system of education and training, some critical issues emerging in recent decades are discussed for their implications on the development path of SMEs systems.