Technology transfer and utilization: A longitudinal study using benefit analysis to measure the results from an R & D Laboratory

Abstract

A description is given of a program designed to improve technology transfer and utilization in a classical organization consisting of a research and development activity and several engineering oriented user activities. The effectiveness of the technology transfer and utilization program is longitudinally studied. Three year comparisons of several parameters are reported. A benefit evaluation decision model is introduced in order to improve the accuracy of the cost/benefit evaluation of the technology transfer and utilization program. Using this model further longitudinal comparisons are made. Finally the general usefulness of the benefit evaluation decision model is argued by showing that for each dollar of investment this particular program gave a present value return of $2.72 in benefit. Several additional comparisons that could be made are suggested