Title: An intelligent technology watch function for the high technology enterprise

Authors: Allan Hodgson, Husam Arman, Nabil N.Z. Gindy

Addresses: University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK. ' University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK. ' University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK

Abstract: This paper highlights technology roadmapping issues for advanced industries, in particular with regard to disruptive technologies. It examines the currently available range of technology watch techniques and considers the potential offered by the emerging Semantic Web. This paper introduces the technology watch research work of the University of Nottingham|s Responsive Manufacturing Group and describes a database-supported process that has been applied in the UK|s aerospace industry. It also describes an ontology-based technology watch system that has been applied in prototype form at a major aerospace manufacturer. A method has been developed to evaluate the level of potential threat that an emerging technology represents and to attach a value to a technology watch project that alleviates that threat level. This paper concludes that an effective technology watch function can significantly mitigate the risks that high technology companies face.

Keywords: strategic planning; technology planning; technology watch; technology roadmapping; ontologies; Semantic Web; high-tech firms; high technology firms; disruptive technologies; aerospace industry; UK; United Kingdom; ontology; risk management; technology threats.

DOI: 10.1504/IJISE.2008.015913

International Journal of Industrial and Systems Engineering, 2008 Vol.3 No.1, pp.38 - 52

Published online: 02 Dec 2007 *

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