Publications Details

Innovation, the economy, and the federal laboratories: Principles and issues of the innovation process

Debriun, J.P.; Corey, J.D.

The technological innovation process comprises a range of stages, steps, and activities extending fro generation of new ideas through successful practical application of those ideas. This process constitutes the larger context within which technology transfer programs must necessarily operate if the goal is to transform new knowledge and technology into products which are competitive in the emerging global marketplace. A basic grasp of the principles and issues involved in the total innovation process is essential for developing and improving programs, prioritizing activities, and making strategic and operational decisions which will be appropriate and effective. This report attempts to provide a relatively brief overview of the total innovation process and related issues. This focus follows from the intent of the federal technology transfer initiative, which is essentially to facilitate the rapid advance of technological progress and to enhance national economic competitiveness. It is important to recognize that the transfer of technology between organizations or individuals is only one part of the complete process, although possibly a critical part in some situations. From an economic standpoint, technology transfer without resulting successful commercialization is meaningless. This report should be useful primer for people from any sector of the economy, even though it is intended to address the context for the transfer of federal laboratory technology in particular.