The Case for User-Oriented Innovation: Comments on the National Technology Strategy (Discussion Draft)

This paper examines the National Technology Strategy (Discussion Draft) recently released by the erstwhile Department of Science and Technology from the perspective of existing knowledge and research in the Diffusion of Innovations and New Product Development fields. We argue that there are three elements essential to a major change in structural emphasis; a supportive environment, a sound technological base, and a thorough appreciation of the needs and values of end users. The draft strategy contains valuable suggestions in the first two areas, but incorporating end user values into product development is almost totally neglected in spite of a substantial body of literature suggesting the dangers of this approach. The focus of this paper is to establish the need for market factors and user considerations to be given more prominence in the National Technology Strategy. A number of government activities to promote the incorporation of end-user values are suggested.