Understanding Technology, Innovation and Product Development

The process of creating and developing new technology - or improving existing technology - is basically creative. Usually technology is created and developed in close collaboration with other technology developers, in teams or projects. This may be within established companies or in new, start-up firms, or in R&D-labs. Outside, in society, many factors interact with the process of creating new technology, such as: markets and competitors, governments and regulations, knowledge and innovation systems, cultural perceptions and aesthetic values. Within this perspective, the seminar will give an introduction in how to analyze and explain the dynamic of technology development, product development, innovation processes and the interaction with the surroundings - and how you as a technology developer may utilize this knowledge for your own benefit. Furthermore, the seminar will elucidate how improved insight may be useful for anticipating future trends and opportunities - and how this may be utilized to the advantage of technology development.

Knowledge:
To give a basic understanding of the interaction between technology and society, in perspective of what technology developers meet daily.
Skills:
Independent management of small R&D projects and contribute actively in larger projects.
General competence:
Communicate work related problems with specialists and nonspecialists.

The course is held at UniK, Kjeller. Lectures, exercises and term projects.