Title: Evaluating the commercial potential of emerging technologies

Authors: Ravi K. Jain, Andrew O. Martyniuk, Melinda M. Harris, Rachel E. Niemann, Karin Woldmann

Addresses: School of Engineering and Computer Science, University of the Pacific, Stockton, California 95211, USA. Centre for Environmental Assessment and Policy, College of Engineering, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio 45221-0071, USA. University of Cincinnati College of Engineering, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45221-0071, USA. University of Cincinnati College of Engineering, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45221-0071, USA. University of Cincinnati College of Engineering, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45221-0071, USA

Abstract: The early evaluation of emerging environmental technologies allows those demonstrating commercial potential to be further developed in ways that would enhance the chances of successful technology transfer. Over the past six years, the comprehensive Strategic Technology Evaluation Program (STEP) model has been developed and continuously modified to evaluate the commercial potential of emerging environmental technologies. Versions of the model have been tested on over 100 environmental technologies and in comparison with benchmarked market opportunity analyses, proved to be the most comprehensive tool developed. The current refinements of the STEP model present enhancements to its structure and terminology, technology screening process and the training of evaluators. Potential uses of the STEP model include technology screening, technology evaluation and the prediction of factors affecting the commercial potential of emerging environmental technologies.

Keywords: commercial potential; commercialization; CRADA; research and development (R&D); Federal Technology Transfer Act; market opportunity analysis (MOA); technology diffusion; technology evaluation method; technology transfer.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTTC.2003.001800

International Journal of Technology Transfer and Commercialisation, 2003 Vol.2 No.1, pp.32-50

Published online: 18 Aug 2003 *

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