Technological effort in industrial development : an interpretative survey of recent research

Abstract

The exploitation of technological knowledge is central to the development process. This paper stresses the role of technological effort in relation to production engineering and project execution as a source of technological mastery, involving not only assimilation but also adaptation of technology. Four sections of the paper survey the main areas of past research on the relationship between technology and industrial development, specifically the choice of technology, experience as a source of technological mastery, reliance upon transfers of technology, and government policies related to technology. This survey focuses on those findings which are of greatest relevance to understanding the acquisition of technological mastery. A case study of the Republic of Korea reviews the evolution of technological mastery in relation to the country's industrial development, particularly in view of Korea's successful attainment of semi-industrial status. The concluding section highlights issues for further research.