Proceedings of a Conference on TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER AND INNOVATION Under the auspices of May 15-17, 1966 NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION NSF 67-5 T 174.3 -C74 1966 For sale by the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office Washington, D.C., 20402-Price 65 cents stacks DEPOSITED BY THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 9-13-67 C Foreword REATIVITY, INVENTION, INNOVATION-these words are used somewhat interchangeably to describe the process of discovery, either by design or accident, of materials, products, or methods that are new. The utilization of these new ideas, and the extension of their practical application throughout the economy, involves technological transfer. In an effort to develop facts about the process of technological transfer, the National Science Foundation engaged the services of the National Planning Association to undertake a study focused on a particular area-the factors which promote or impede the application in the civilian economy of scientific and technological findings resulting from the defense and space programs. The Conference on Technology Transfer and Innovation, the record of which provides the contents of this document, was an outgrowth of the NPA study. It was designed to take a sounding of the experience, opinions, and findings of knowledgeable representatives of industry, educational institutions, and Government agencies. That the participants have contributed generously and effectively is evident from the record. The National Science Foundation is confident that the report will find acceptance as a solid contribution to a better understanding of the highly complex problems of innovation, invention, and technology. Credit must go to Sumner Myers for his imaginative conception of the Conference agenda and effective organization of the program. We wish to thank also the chairmen of the sessions, who played an important part in eliciting from the discussants many pertinent and illuminating questions and comments. We are grateful to all of the participants for their unflagging attention and thoughtful contributions. H. E. RILEY Head, Office of Economic and Manpower Studies National Science Foundation |