All You Need To Know About Technology Scouting
All About Technology Scouting
‘Innovate or Perish’ is the new mantra for companies. In a world of rapidly evolving technologies that continually produce new and innovative tools and processes, it is imperative for an organization to maintain a solid patent portfolio in order to survive.
It is no surprise then that many companies are engaging in “Open Innovation” to adapt and welcome new ideas and resources. And Technology Scouting is an essential component of this model.
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What is Open Innovation?
Open Innovation refers to a business management model based on the belief that a company would benefit from collaborations with external sources, be it individuals or other companies.
By connecting to an external pool of knowledge and ideas, companies can keep innovating and prospering. Proctor & Gamble’s “Connect & Develop” and Philips’ High Tech Campus Eindhoven are a few examples of the successful implementation of Open Innovation.
What is Tech Scouting in Open Innovation
At the heart of Open Innovation lies a company’s ability to identify the right patent collaborations that are in tune with its goals and objectives. And this is where Technology Scouting steps in. The Technology Scouting Services at T&T help you in identifying the right partners and technologies for licensing through our detailed methodology and expert team of consultants.
Steps involved in Tech Scouting
The technology scouting definition(meaning) involves identifying emerging technologies for patent acquisition, evaluating them, and building collaboration networks with sources external to the company.
Technology Scouting Methodology
At TT Consultants, we aim to deliver the most accurate results each time with our advanced Tech Scouting Methodology. The technology scouting process involves carefully evaluated steps that promise a sound and consistent delivery of a healthy and evolving patent portfolio.
A thorough assessment of available technology that can fill the gaps in existing innovations within the company is an important step in tech scouting. Before answering where to look, it is important to understand what exactly to look for. A Whitespace Analysis is a useful tool that helps in identifying innovators or companies that are creating relevant tech.
University collaborations are highly profitable to building a diverse and expansive patent portfolio. Understandably then most companies are interested in or already have Agreements with universities. Once an Agreement is signed, the license for the innovation belongs to the company and cannot be shared with other parties. However, once a collaboration ceases to be active, universities are free to continue research and innovations in the same direction.
It is important to assess gaps in current technology using an assessment methodology that covers various evaluation criteria. The gap analysis helps you compare the present state of IT tools and tech versus the desired one, thereby helping build a roadmap that leads to the anticipated outcome.
Once a tech is identified, it is crucial to weigh its merits. Opportunity and Risk Assessment employs a bevy of tools to understand the risks involved, recognize loopholes, mitigate costs, and comprehend the legal requirements. By doing so companies can reduce critical vulnerabilities and increase strategic benefits. A thorough assessment significantly reduces any future troubles with patents.
Business Intelligence takes into account the broad ecosystem a company functions in. It uses insights and analysis from the political, social, environmental, and financial trends to focus on business strategies and decisions.
Similarly, Technology Intelligence involves early identification of new trends, breakthroughs, and innovations in the field of technology, and competitor analysis to create a sustainable competitive edge. Together, Business and Technology Intelligence form the cornerstone of a brilliant and reliable Tech Scouting protocol.
Technology Scouting Benefits
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Identify existing and potential innovations.
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Unveil key patents related to a technology.
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Minimize risks associated with patent acquisition or filing.
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Optimize resource usage & increase efficiency.
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Give the company a competitive edge.
Adopting an active tech scouting model prevents disruptive technologies from damaging a business. By keeping an eye out for budding tech, businesses can prepare and upgrade themselves to face the challenge.
Tech Scouting helps businesses maintain a healthy patent portfolio that keeps them ahead in the tech-race. While no one can predict the future, companies can definitely be ready to spot opportunities, eliminate threats, and gain a first-mover advantage in their decisions.
Challenges in Technology Scouting
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Identifying and connecting to the right sources.
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Devoting time and resources to the process.
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Measuring and reporting the success of each initiative.
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Managing an ever-evolving portfolio.
How We Can Help
While above challenges pose a huge deterrent to the tech-scouting process, shying away from it may take away the competitive advantage of even the most established companies.
This is where we step in. When you partner with us for technology scouting best practices, you get a dedicated team with over 15 years of experience equipped with the right tools to help you recognize emerging technology and assist with all the paraphernalia in incorporating it into your business.
