Title: Technology intelligence systems for manufacturing technologies – an empirical analysis in the context of timing strategies

Authors: Daniel Gerhard, Kai-Ingo Voigt

Addresses: Faculty of Law and Economics, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Lange Gasse 20, 90403 Nuremberg, Germany. ' Faculty of Law and Economics, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Lange Gasse 20, 90403 Nuremberg, Germany

Abstract: In many industries, competition has shifted towards a technological timing competition. This also applies to new manufacturing-related technologies, which allow for the producing of superior products with lower costs. In particular, the field of new manufacturing technologies is very broad and new technological developments in this field can originate from competitors, research facilities, or universities in research fields that are not related at all to the originating company. Therefore, companies need a sophisticated technology intelligence system to remain competitive in the timing competition of manufacturing technologies. Our study analyses the state of development of technology intelligence systems in different companies in the context of their timing strategy for the implementation of new manufacturing-related technologies. The results show that pioneer companies have a more sophisticated technology intelligence system compared to follower companies. These pioneer companies more often follow a structured technology intelligence process, use more sources of information and apply different methods to evaluate the information. Furthermore, pioneers more often cooperate in their technology intelligence activities with external partners, in particular with customers, suppliers, and universities or research facilities.

Keywords: technology intelligence; manufacturing technology; technology planning; time-based competition.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTMKT.2009.032182

International Journal of Technology Marketing, 2009 Vol.4 No.4, pp.368 - 387

Published online: 15 Mar 2010 *

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