Technology commercialization front-end framework: Metallurgical industry

The development and commercialization of technologies within the metallurgical industry often spans a time-frame of decades. This paper proposes a managerial framework that aims at increasing the success rate and speed of technology commercialization within this industry, focusing on the front end of the process. A case study research strategy was applied, with an in-depth evaluation of two cases. The cases involved technologies that were developed by a metallurgical research and development organization. For each of the cases, secondary data was collected, followed by interviews. The data was evaluated, compared, and consolidated into a framework. For the technology development stages of concept development, and for research and development, important factors were identified that contribute to the successful development of technologies with the objective of commercialization. During concept development, the most important factor was determined to be the identification of the need or opportunity within the market, whereas the most important factors during research and development were determined to be the involvement of a project champion, a suitable team, and a potential implementer. The central driver of technology commercialization was identified to be the market, along with the fulfilment of a need or opportunity within the market.