Framework, process and tool for managing technology-based assets

Abstract

Technology organisations centre their business on the development of new technology-based offerings (i.e., products and services). The strategic management of technology-based assets is therefore crucial for these organisations as an imperative for business success. However, these assets are often intangible and reflect future rather than current value and are therefore difficult to manage when using traditional managerial concepts, This study investigates integrative mechanisms addressing the management of technology-based assets and offerings in a technology organisation, The approach taken was to study the views and practices regarding the management of technology-based assets in a number of strategic units of a technology organisation (CSIR, South Africa). The study maintains that the management of technology-based assets and offerings requires clear strategic management of the process of technological innovation with special emphasis on the management of the intellectual capital (IC) and the intellectual property (IP) of the organisation, The study describes a framework linking the core processes supporting the management of technology-based assets and offerings with other organisational elements such as leadership, strategy, and culture. Specific key links between the core process of innovation and the strategic management of investment in technology-based assets using a portfolio approach are discussed.