Podcast
Questions and Answers
What characterizes the Research and Development phase in the technology life cycle?
What characterizes the Research and Development phase in the technology life cycle?
What is a primary focus during the Ascent phase of the technology life cycle?
What is a primary focus during the Ascent phase of the technology life cycle?
In the Maturity stage of the technology life cycle, what major challenge is faced?
In the Maturity stage of the technology life cycle, what major challenge is faced?
What should be a priority for companies during the Research and Development phase?
What should be a priority for companies during the Research and Development phase?
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Which is an indicator of the maturity stage of a technology?
Which is an indicator of the maturity stage of a technology?
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What does product technology primarily focus on?
What does product technology primarily focus on?
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Which of the following is NOT a feature of process technology?
Which of the following is NOT a feature of process technology?
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What phase of the S-Curve is characterized by intense research and development efforts?
What phase of the S-Curve is characterized by intense research and development efforts?
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Which of the following best defines technoware?
Which of the following best defines technoware?
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Which of the following innovations is an example of a product in the maturity phase of the S-Curve?
Which of the following innovations is an example of a product in the maturity phase of the S-Curve?
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What is the primary focus of infoware?
What is the primary focus of infoware?
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In the context of product technology, what function does voice recognition serve?
In the context of product technology, what function does voice recognition serve?
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What distinguishes the takeoff phase from other S-Curve phases?
What distinguishes the takeoff phase from other S-Curve phases?
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What type of technology is represented by robots in process technology?
What type of technology is represented by robots in process technology?
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What is the primary feature of humanware?
What is the primary feature of humanware?
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What phase follows the maturity phase in the S-Curve?
What phase follows the maturity phase in the S-Curve?
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Which technology is used for securing device access in product technology?
Which technology is used for securing device access in product technology?
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What is a key characteristic of flexible manufacturing systems?
What is a key characteristic of flexible manufacturing systems?
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In which S-Curve phase do incremental innovations typically take place?
In which S-Curve phase do incremental innovations typically take place?
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Study Notes
Technology Components
- Product technology focuses on the design features of a product to optimize performance (function, use, handling, reliability, quality, etc.).
- Process technology provides the means to create and deliver products, using methods, techniques, machines, and resources to meet specified product features.
Product Technology Examples
- Touchscreen displays: allow direct interaction with on-screen elements, enabling intuitive and seamless user experiences.
- Wireless charging: enables devices to be charged without physical wires, increasing convenience and reducing clutter.
- Fingerprint sensors: provide secure and convenient biometric authentication for device access.
- Voice recognition: allows hands-free operation and natural language interaction with products and services.
Process Technology Examples
- Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Machine Tools: perform metal-cutting and forming operations controlled by a computer.
- Robots: automatic position-controlled multi-function manipulators capable of handling materials, parts, tools, and devices using variable programmed motions.
- Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs): small, independently powered vehicles used to transport materials between different production stages.
- Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMSs): computer-controlled workstations connected by automated material handling and machine loading, enabling semi-independent operation.
- Computer-Integrated Manufacturing (CIM): a manufacturing approach using computers to monitor and control the entire production process.
Technology Embodiment Forms
- Technoware: the physical embodiment of technology, including equipment, tools, devices, machinery, and structures.
- Humanware: the skills, knowledge, ideas, and problem-solving capacities of people, necessary to operate and utilize technology.
- Orgaware: the organizational frameworks and operational technologies used to manage and control a company.
- Infoware: technical plans and information for operations and maintenance, including manuals, data sheets, and documents.
Technology S-Curve
- Ferment phase: the beginning of innovation where the product/industry is new; most resources spent on R&D; competition is low. (e.g., Driverless car, 5G)
- Takeoff phase: the dominant design is established; rapid growth in production; product quickly reaches full market acceptance. (e.g., Electric car, 4G)
- Maturity phase: the product is completely adopted by society; resources spent on improving production processes; products are standardized; incremental innovations. (e.g., Hybrid car, 3G)
- Discontinuity phase: new innovations occur as a new S-Curve pattern rises; a previous product mature; opportunity for new product for innovators; new life cycle; disruption. (e.g., Digital cameras, Gasoline cars, GPRS)
Mechanical vs. Electronic Calculators
- By the 1950s, mechanical calculators reached technological maturity.
- Integrated circuits represented a later breakthrough, making electronic calculators better and cheaper, displacing mechanical calculators by the early 1970s.
Telecommunications Industry S-Curve
- The telecommunications industry's S-curve shows the evolution of technologies like 1G to 4G, measuring technical progress in Kbps and resources invested through the years.
Technology Life Cycle
- The Technology Life Cycle (TLC) describes the costs and profits of a product from technological development to market maturity and eventual decline.
- The life cycle affects product offerings and processes within the entire company.
Research and Development (R&D)
- Initial R&D is typically negative, with high chances of failure and often funded by the company as revenues are low.
- Feedback from industry experts is essential to improve technology to industry standards and give it an edge.
Technology Ascent Phase
- Focusing on commercialization and demonstration.
- A better marketing strategy is needed.
- Time to recover out-of-pocket costs.
- Leverage the competitive advantage through rapid growth and distribution.
Maturity Phase
- High gains and stable revenues, but also a point of saturation.
- Competitors catch up with developed technology.
- Revenues may slow or drop.
Decline Phase
- Inevitable decrease in sales and the emergence of new technologies.
- Need to move out of old technology and invest in new.
Example: Nokia Technology Life Cycle
- Nokia was the dominant cell phone maker in the early 2000s, but the release of Apple's iOS and Google's Android led to its decline following innovation.
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Description
Explore the key components of product and process technology. This quiz covers specific examples and features of product technology, such as touchscreen displays and biometric sensors, as well as process technologies like CNC machines and robots. Test your understanding of these technological innovations that enhance performance and production.
