Tech Mining: A Key Tool to Bolster Innovation

摘要

Not long ago, companies deliberately imposed tall barriers to outsiders trying to bring them new inventions. Suddenly this has changed as "Open Innovation" sweeps across the corporate mindset. Companies now actively seek to exchange new technological knowledge with others. That makes effectively mining science & technology information ("Tech Mining") a critical capability.We present an 8-step process to systematically exploit information resources. The Tech Mining framework addresses essential technology management issues. Enabled by continually improving software tools, this answers a range of management questions through empirical indicators.We share two case examples to show how Tech Mining can pay off in better informed decision processes. One case involves profiling Research & Development literature to assess the technological maturity of thin film ceramics and then to identify cutting edge R&D organizations. This resulted in a major new production capability. The second case illustrates patent analyses to locate opportunities in a biotechnology area.Sound good? It is not so easy. Management of "Tech Mining" processes poses many challenges. We call attention to a difficult series of issues that must be resolved to garner data-based competitive technical intelligence and put it to use to facilitate innovation.