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Contrary to neoclassical theory that envisioned the economy solely as competing firms whose only objective was profit maximisation, it is now known that not only does development require networking between these firms, but that the quality of networks is an important factor of their dynamism within regions. The most successful firms in terms of innovation and new technology adoption or in terms of complex production are notably linked to "distant" or "weak signal" sources. These sources evolve rapidly with the firms’ needs and competencies. An empirical study of manufacturing SMEs in a region of Quebec found that the most innovative firms operate through weak signal networks in a manner that differs markedly from traditional business relationships.