1st Edition
Technology and Engineering Strategies Step-by-Step from Theory into Practice
This pioneering book is the first-ever practical guide to developing and communicating technology and engineering strategies.
It presents a unique step-by-step method for creating robust, evidence-based strategy, known as the Five Dimensions Process (or 5DP). The book also introduces a host of original insights, including a new theory of technology, a novel approach to product innovation, and groundbreaking contributions to our understanding of technological risk. It describes many easy-to-use tools, both new and established, for supporting activities such as solution design, system monitoring, risk identification, project management, the development of personnel, and ethical decision making. The book brims with strategic and tactical advice on such topics as university collaboration, technical compatibility, data utilisation, product design, project cancellations, outsourcing, knowledge management, and risk mitigation.
It is essential reading for technologists and engineers across all disciplines, technology and engineering leaders, and professional strategy consultants.
PART I Definitions, scoping, and challenges 1. The Formalities: How organisations communicate strategies 2. Key components: The parts that make the whole 3. Scoping the subject: What should we expect from a strategy? 4. The unexpected: In the realm where uncertainty is King 5. A shadow of doubt: Why light rarely shines on the future 6. The origins of uncertainty: Eighteen sources of shock and surprise 7. Strategy in mind: How our thoughts shape decisions PART II Strategy in practice 8. A stake in the strategy: Understanding the parties that matter 9. Do it Right! Conflicting values in a complex world 10. What’s new? Succeed by innovating and by not innovating 11. Navigating uncertainty: Getting to where we want to go PART III Something to take away 12. A strategy blueprint: The five dimensions process 13. Inputs and outputs: Lessons learned and how to apply them
Biography
P.J. Moar practises as an independent management and technology consultant and has been working with technologists, engineers, educationalists, and risk professionals for three decades. He was formerly an infrastructure manager with General Electric (GE). Moar was awarded the 1991 J. Elizabeth Morris Prize by the University of Wales, and in 2005 received a Letter of Commendation from the University of Cambridge. He later undertook research in technology policy and engineering theory both at MIT and Cambridge, work subsequently published by the Royal Academy of Engineering.
“Peter has created a practical and comprehensively researched guide to technology and engineering strategy that is systematic and emphasises the value of systems thinking throughout. It is richly referenced, full of useful techniques, and I learned plenty from reading it.”
Alan Harding, BSc(Hons) CEng MINCOSE FIET, BAE Systems Global Engineering Fellow, Past President of INCOSE and INCOSE UK
“…a deft interweaving of theory, practical case studies, and insightful queries that holds the promise of a transformative reading experience. Peter Moar’s Technology and Engineering Strategies stands as a paradigm-shifting resource for those in engineering and organisational leadership. Meticulously blending engineering best practices with strategic thinking, this book provides an essential framework for developing comprehensive organisational strategies. Its insightful exploration of technology strategy, fortified with practical case studies and the novel ‘five dimensions’ theory, makes it an invaluable guide for professional development. This book is more than just a source of knowledge; it’s a catalyst for innovative thinking and strategic excellence in both engineering practice and organisational leadership.”
Benjamin Cowan, CEng MIET, Chief Engineer at Coltraco Ultrasonics
“I’ve found myself saying 'Hallelujah' a couple of times. Great stuff. An entertaining read, and one that will further the knowledge and understanding of many engineers, scientists and technologists for years to come.”
Gavin Lewis, MEng E-MBA CEng MIET, Technical Director at Allen-Vanguard
