Title: A foresight methodology for exploring prior R&D topics in software field: calculation and resolution of conflicts

Authors: Shin-ichi Kobayashi, Fumihiro Kumeno, Yasuyuki Shirai, Hiroshi Inujima

Addresses: Mitsubishi Research Institute, Inc., 2-3-6, Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-8141, Japan. ' Mitsubishi Research Institute, Inc., 2-3-6, Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-8141, Japan. ' Mitsubishi Research Institute, Inc., 2-3-6, Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-8141, Japan. ' Graduate School of Information Production and Systems, Waseda University, 2-7, Hibikino, Wakamatsu-ku, Kita-kyushu, Fukuoka 808-0135, Japan

Abstract: To reinforce the research development power, it is necessary to clarify the methodology of formulating the R&D strategies. This paper focuses on the methodology of setting the themes for R&D. We propose the NeXT model, which consists of two stages: foresight of the priority areas based on the conflicts between near-future trends and verifying the priority areas. We show a method for calculating a Degree of Conflict using FURPS+ model. The NeXT model comes in compliance with the characteristics of the current society in which the link between technology and society is stronger than ever before.

Keywords: R&D strategy; software; FURPS+ model; technology foresight; research and development; conflict resolution; software industry.

DOI: 10.1504/IJFIP.2010.032668

International Journal of Foresight and Innovation Policy, 2010 Vol.6 No.1/2/3, pp.88 - 113

Published online: 11 Apr 2010 *

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