Article: Towards a fourth generation R&D management model-research networks in knowledge management Journal: International Journal of Technology Management (IJTM) 1999 Vol.18 No.3/4 pp.372-393 Abstract: Research and development (R&D) management is increasingly about managing knowledge rather than simply managing its generation. Better management of knowledge is a key success factor for industry competitiveness through continuous innovation. R&D management processes developed in the past, which can be described as the first, second, or third generation models, deal with concepts, techniques and tools for managing research as an investment portfolio of the firm. These models focus on the creation and diffusion of knowledge internal to the firm. Management of R&D is also about managing knowledge external to the firm and it involves the management of complementary skills, technological dependencies, and knowledge transfers across research links. This paper addresses the concept of research management as the generation of intellectual capital, which drives future businesses and new products. It examines, as a case study, research management practices employed by biotechnology and pharmaceutical research groups in industries and universities and outlines a fourth generation approach to managing research. Inderscience Publishers - linking academia, business and industry through research

Title: Towards a fourth generation R&D management model-research networks in knowledge management

Authors: Shantha Liyanage, Paul F Greenfield, Robert Don

Addresses: Technology Management Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld. 4072, Australia. Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research), The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld. 4072, Australia. Progen Industries Ltd., 2806 Ipswich Road, Darra, Qld 4076, Australia

Abstract: Research and development (R&D) management is increasingly about managing knowledge rather than simply managing its generation. Better management of knowledge is a key success factor for industry competitiveness through continuous innovation. R&D management processes developed in the past, which can be described as the first, second, or third generation models, deal with concepts, techniques and tools for managing research as an investment portfolio of the firm. These models focus on the creation and diffusion of knowledge internal to the firm. Management of R&D is also about managing knowledge external to the firm and it involves the management of complementary skills, technological dependencies, and knowledge transfers across research links. This paper addresses the concept of research management as the generation of intellectual capital, which drives future businesses and new products. It examines, as a case study, research management practices employed by biotechnology and pharmaceutical research groups in industries and universities and outlines a fourth generation approach to managing research.

Keywords: R&D management; collaboration; knowledge capital; knowledge management; innovation; fourth generation R&D management; research planning and commercialisation; technology acquisition; drug discovery; pharmaceutical research; innovation; competitiveness.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTM.1999.002770

International Journal of Technology Management, 1999 Vol.18 No.3/4, pp.372-393

Published online: 06 Jul 2003 *

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Title: Towards a fourth generation R&D management model-research networks in knowledge management

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