Title: Research on how to develop R&D strategies using the soft systems approach

Authors: Masaya Nakano, Hiroyuki Nobutomo, Mitsuhiro Okada, Atsuo Mizushima

Addresses: Mitsubishi Research Institute Inc., 2-3-6 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100, Japan. Mitsubishi Research Institute Inc., 2-3-6 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100, Japan. Mitsubishi Research Institute Inc., 2-3-6 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100, Japan. Mitsubishi Research Institute Inc., 2-3-6 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100, Japan

Abstract: To motivate researchers and increase productivity of research and development activities in corporate entities, it is necessary to start by drawing up a R&D strategy. This strategy must be understood and shared by all researchers so that research and development activities can be conducted in the direction of that strategy. Using a soft systems approach, the authors have developed a method allowing the drawing up of strategies that can be shared and applied easily. The authors further suggest means to modify this method to fit the needs of different types of companies.

Keywords: research and development management; soft systems approach; technology domain; research and development strategic planning.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTM.1997.002586

International Journal of Technology Management, 1997 Vol.14 No.6/7/8, pp.822-833

Published online: 29 Jul 2003 *

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