Value Roadmapping

Technology managers have a wide range of methods and tools at their disposal for deciding whether to invest in early-stage technologies. However, these techniques are mostly focused on quantitative measures such as discounted cash flow and real options techniques, and in the early, uncertain stages of technology development they lack accuracy. By adopting a qualitative approach called value roadmapping, the potential future value streams for early-stage technologies can be explored and hence a clearer consensus-based picture of the future potential of new technologies derived. The VRM method is a workshop-based process that brings together cross-functional perspectives and supporting communication, in particular between technical and commercial groups. The technique has been developed and tested in seven cases in both large technology-intensive companies and research-driven SMEs and institutes.