UNIT - 1 TIM
UNIT - 1 TIM
Innovation
Management
MBA (G) II
Technology:
• Technology refers to the application of scientific knowledge, tools,
and techniques to solve problems, create products, or improve
processes in various areas of human life. It encompasses both
tangible tools (like machines, computers, and devices) and intangible
systems (like software, algorithms, and methods).
• Etymology
• The word "technology" comes from the Greek words:
• "Techne" meaning art, skill, or craft.
• "Logos" meaning study or discourse.
Key Elements of Technology
• Introduction: In the late 1970s, the compact cassette tape was a popular
medium for music storage.
• Growth: The 1980s saw the rise of the compact disc (CD), offering superior
sound quality and durability. CDs rapidly gained popularity, leading to a
decline in cassette sales.
• Maturity: By the 1990s and early 2000s, CDs dominated the music industry.
However, the market became saturated, and innovation plateaued.
• Decline: The early 2000s introduced digital music formats (e.g., MP3s) and
streaming services, leading to a sharp decline in CD sales as consumers
favored the convenience of digital music.
S-Curve of Technology:
• Scenario analysis is a forecasting method that involves developing multiple possible future situations
(scenarios) based on various uncertainties and trends. It helps organizations prepare for different possible
futures by exploring alternative developments in technology, economy, society, and regulations.
• Key Features
• Focuses on plausible future outcomes rather than predicting a single result.
• Based on qualitative and quantitative inputs (expert opinions, historical data, trend analysis).
• Helps in strategic planning by considering best-case, worst-case, and most-likely scenarios.
• Example of Scenario Analysis
• A company in the electric vehicle (EV) industry wants to forecast the market in the next 10 years. Three
scenarios might be:
1. Optimistic Scenario – Battery technology advances rapidly, leading to cheaper EVs and widespread adoption.
2. Pessimistic Scenario – Shortage of rare earth materials leads to high battery costs, slowing down EV adoption.
3. Baseline Scenario – Gradual improvements in technology with steady but slow adoption.
• By analyzing these scenarios, the company can plan investments and strategies accordingly.
Process:
1. Developing multiple future scenarios based on different assumptions.
2. Helps organizations prepare for various possibilities.
3. Identifies all possible combinations of technological components.
4. Helps explore alternative solutions and innovations.
4. Morphological Analysis
• Definition
• The morphological method is a systematic, structured approach used to explore
all possible technological developments by breaking a problem into multiple
dimensions and analyzing various combinations. It is particularly useful in
designing new technologies or predicting future innovations.
• Key Features
• Involves breaking down a system into fundamental components (parameters)
and exploring all possible combinations.
• Uses a morphological matrix (grid of different possible features or characteristics).
• More structured and exhaustive than scenario analysis.
• Useful for brainstorming new technology designs and disruptive innovations.
Difference Between Delphi Method and Expert
Panel Method in Technological Forecasting
• Technological forecasting involves predicting future developments in
technology using systematic approaches. Two commonly used
qualitative forecasting techniques are the Delphi Method and the
Expert Panel Method.
•The Delphi Method is better for structured, long-term forecasting where consensus is needed.
•The Expert Panel Method is best for quick decision-making and collaborative discussions.
Quantitative Methods (Based on data,
mathematical models, and statistical analysis)
1. Trend Extrapolation
1. Uses past data to predict future trends.
2. Simple but assumes that past trends will continue.
2. Growth Curve Analysis (S-Curve Model)
1. Predicts how a technology evolves over time (Introduction → Growth → Maturity → Decline).
2. Useful for estimating the lifespan of a technology.
3. Regression Analysis
1. Uses statistical models to predict future trends based on historical data.
2. Commonly used in market and economic forecasting.
4. Patent Analysis
1. Examines trends in patent filings to predict future innovations.
2. Helps identify emerging technologies and R&D focus areas.
5. Technology Road mapping
1. A strategic planning tool that aligns technology development with business goals.
2. Helps organizations track technological progress over time.
Technology Policy
• Definition:
• Technology Policy refers to the set of rules, guidelines, and
frameworks established by governments, organizations, or institutions
to govern the development, adoption, and diffusion of technology in
an economy or sector.
Examples of Technology Policy:
• Definition:
• Technology Strategy is the plan that organizations or governments
adopt to leverage technology for achieving their business or policy
objectives. It aligns technological investments with long-term goals.
Examples of Technology
Strategy:
• Tesla’s Strategy – Investing heavily in battery technology, AI, and
electric vehicles.
• Amazon’s Cloud Computing Strategy (AWS) – A focus on scalable
cloud infrastructure.
• Google’s AI Strategy – Focusing on AI-powered services (e.g., Google
Assistant, DeepMind).
Types of Technology Strategy:
• Definition:
• Technology Generation refers to the process of creating and
developing new technologies through research, experimentation, and
innovation. It involves generating new ideas, concepts, and
prototypes that lead to technological advancements.
Examples of Technology
Generation:
• Development of COVID-19 Vaccines – mRNA technology was
generated through extensive research.
• Quantum Computing Research – IBM and Google are working on
next-generation quantum computers.
• Electric Vehicles (EVs) – Advances in battery technology led to
commercial EVs.
Phases of Technology
Generation:
1.Basic Research: Fundamental scientific exploration without immediate
commercial application (e.g., quantum computing research).
2.Applied Research: Research focused on solving specific problems (e.g.,
developing 5G networks).
3.Prototype Development: Creating early models of new technology (e.g.,
Tesla’s prototype electric vehicle).
4.Pilot Testing: Testing the technology on a small scale before commercial
release (e.g., vaccine trials).
5.Commercialization: Bringing the technology to market for mass adoption.
Sources of Technology
Generation:
Technology Development
• Definition:
• Technology Development refers to the process of improving, refining,
and adapting technology for real-world applications and
commercialization. It includes upgrading existing technologies,
optimizing performance, and scaling production.
Stages of Technology
Development:
1.Idea & Conceptualization: Identifying a problem and conceptualizing a solution.
2.Design & Engineering: Designing product prototypes and testing their feasibility.
3.Prototyping & Experimentation: Building test models and running experimental
studies.
4.Testing & Validation: Ensuring reliability, performance, and compliance with
regulations.
5.Scaling & Mass Production: Transitioning from prototypes to large-scale
production.
6.Market Deployment & Adoption: Launching the technology in the market and
encouraging widespread use.
(5) Market Demand : Consumer needs drive technological
improvements.
• Definition
• Technology acquisition refers to the process by which firms obtain
technology from external sources rather than developing it in-house.
This can include purchasing patents, licensing, joint ventures, and
strategic alliances.
Factors Influencing Technology
Acquisition
• Cost-effectiveness: The financial viability of acquiring technology.
• Strategic fit: How well the technology aligns with business objectives.
• Technological obsolescence: The risk of the technology becoming
outdated.
• Legal and regulatory considerations: Compliance with patent laws
and trade regulations.
• Availability of skilled workforce: The ability of employees to adopt
and manage the new technology.
Advantages of Technology
Acquisition
• Reduces time-to-market for new products.
• Helps in gaining competitive advantage.
• Reduces R&D costs and risks.
• Facilitates entry into new markets.
Technology Absorption
• Definition
• Technology absorption refers to the process of adopting, internalizing,
and effectively utilizing acquired technology within an organization.
Process of Technology
Absorption
1.Knowledge Transfer: Acquiring technical know-how through training
and documentation.
2.Adaptation: Modifying the technology to suit local needs and
conditions.
3.Integration: Incorporating the technology into the firm’s production
and operational processes.
4.Enhancement & Innovation: Improving the acquired technology for
better efficiency and competitiveness.
5.Diffusion: Spreading the absorbed technology across various
departments and functions.
Factors Influencing Technology
Absorption
• Training and Development: Adequate training programs for
employees.
• R&D Capabilities: Presence of an in-house research and development
team.
• Government Support: Policies and incentives to facilitate technology
absorption.
• Infrastructure Readiness: Availability of necessary resources and
infrastructure.
• Collaboration with Research Institutions: Partnerships with
universities and technology firms.
Advantages of Technology
Absorption
• Increases efficiency and productivity.
• Reduces dependence on foreign technology.
• Promotes innovation and indigenous technology development.
• Enhances economic growth and industrial competitiveness.
Challenges in Technology Absorption
• Resistance to change from employees and management.
• Lack of technical expertise and skilled workforce.
• High investment requirements for training and infrastructure.
• Difficulties in modifying foreign technology to suit local needs.
Strategies for Effective Technology Acquisition
and Absorption
• Technology export refers to the transfer of technological knowledge, expertise, and innovations
from one country to another. It includes patents, technical know-how, industrial processes, and
software solutions. The export of technology plays a crucial role in global economic
development and international business strategies. The need for technology export arises due to
several reasons:
• 1. Economic Growth and Revenue Generation
• Technology export helps in earning foreign exchange, boosting the economy of the exporting
country.
• It creates revenue streams through licensing, franchising, and foreign direct investment (FDI).
• 2. Competitive Advantage
• Companies and countries that export technology gain a competitive edge by positioning
themselves as global leaders in innovation.
• It helps in strengthening research and development (R&D) capabilities through collaboration
with foreign entities.
• 3. Global Market Expansion
• Technology export allows companies to expand their operations into
international markets.
• It provides access to new customers, increasing market share and business
opportunities.
• 4. Strengthening Diplomatic and Trade Relations
• Countries that export technology strengthen their trade relations with other
nations, leading to improved bilateral ties.
• It enhances international cooperation and fosters strategic partnerships.
• 5. Bridging the Technological Gap in Developing Countries
• Many developing nations lack advanced technology for industries such as
healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing.
• Technology export helps bridge this gap, leading to economic and social
development.
• 6. Utilization of Surplus Technology
• Developed nations and technology firms often have surplus or outdated technologies that can still be useful
in other markets.
• Instead of letting innovations go unused, they can be commercialized through technology exports.
• 7. Encouraging Research and Innovation
• The demand for exported technology motivates companies to invest in R&D and continuously improve their
products.
• It leads to the development of cutting-edge innovations that benefit both the exporting and importing
nations.
• 8. Enhancing Industrial Growth
• Industries relying on advanced technology benefit from knowledge transfer, leading to improved
productivity and efficiency.
• It helps in modernizing traditional industries and boosting overall industrial development.
• 9. Addressing Global Challenges
• Technology export in sectors like renewable energy, healthcare, and AI can help address global challenges
such as climate change, pandemics, and cybersecurity threats.
• It facilitates the sharing of sustainable and eco-friendly technologies.
• 10. Compliance with International Trade Agreements
• Many international trade agreements encourage the exchange of technology for mutual benefits.
• Countries that actively export technology comply with global trade policies, fostering a favorable business
environment.
Licensing In and Licensing Out in the Context
of Technology Export
• Licensing is a contractual agreement where the owner of a technology (licensor) grants permission to another
party (licensee) to use its intellectual property (IP) under specific terms. In the context of technology export,
licensing plays a crucial role in transferring technological expertise across borders.
• 1. Licensing In
• Definition: Licensing in refers to the process where a company or country acquires technology, patents, or
intellectual property rights from a foreign entity to enhance its own capabilities.
• Importance of Licensing In:
• Access to Advanced Technology: Helps businesses in developing countries acquire modern technology without
extensive R&D investments.
• Faster Market Entry: Companies can quickly introduce new products and processes by adopting already
developed technologies.
• Cost-Effective Innovation: Reduces the need for in-house innovation, allowing firms to focus on implementation
rather than development.
• Improved Competitiveness: Helps businesses improve their products and services, leading to better market
positioning.
• Encourages Foreign Collaboration: Facilitates partnerships with global technology leaders, fostering knowledge
exchange.
Examples of Licensing In:
• Definition: Licensing out refers to the process where a company or country grants foreign firms the right to use
its technology, patents, or intellectual property in exchange for royalties, fees, or other benefits.
• Importance of Licensing Out:
• Revenue Generation: Companies earn income through licensing agreements without physically setting up
operations abroad.
• Expanding Global Reach: Enables businesses to enter foreign markets without the need for direct investment.
• Monetizing Intellectual Property: Helps firms capitalize on their R&D investments by commercializing
innovations globally.
• Risk Reduction: Reduces the risks associated with foreign market entry, such as political instability and
regulatory challenges.
• Enhancing Brand Recognition: Companies licensing their technology to global players can establish themselves
as industry leaders.
• Examples of Licensing Out:
• A U.S. software firm licensing its AI algorithm to a European company for local market adaptation.
• A Japanese electronics company licensing its semiconductor technology to manufacturers in China and South
Korea.
Modes of Technology Exports