Title: The development of capability for tackling R&D issues in small companies: a case of a CNC-controller manufacturer in Taiwan

Authors: Charng-Horng Hsieh, Sun-Perng KoWang

Addresses: Institute of Management Science, College of Management, National Chiao Tung University, 4F, 114, Section 1, Chung-Hsiao W. Road, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China. Institute of Management Science, College of Management, National Chiao Tung University, 4F, 114, Section 1, Chung-Hsiao W. Road, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China

Abstract: This study attempts to clarify the question of how we should observe the growth of R&D capabilities in Taiwan|s small companies. It examines the local characteristics of SMEs| (Small and Medium-sized Enterprises|) R&D activities and argues the inadequacy of applying western theories directly in the unique environment of Taiwan. A new premise of how to conduct the observation is proposed. A case study is administrated in a small manufacturer of CNC control boxes to illustrate the adequacy of this premise. The implications of this case and its theoretical generalisation for observation of SMEs| R&D capabilities are discussed.

Keywords: R&D capabilities; growth of R&D capabilities; R&D scope; R&D time; small and medium-sized enterprises; SMEs; Taiwan.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTM.1997.001682

International Journal of Technology Management, 1997 Vol.13 No.5/6, pp.571-587

Published online: 16 Aug 2003 *

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