A Companion to the Philosophy of Technology

What Is Technology Management/Management of Technology (MOT)?

Technology management can be viewed from many different perspectives since the word “technology” itself is subject to various interpretations. However, the author of this thesis approaches the topics from different experiences that are associated with different environments and backgrounds. It is hoped that this thesis will present the many facets of technology management. The two words “management” and “technology” not only carry the burden of many different meanings but also present additional sophistication owing to the anthropological diversity. To many, MOT means managing engineering and technology. To others, MOT indicates managing knowledge and information, managing research and development, managing manufacture and operation, managing the activities of engineers and scientists, or managing the functional activities without concern for the total of activities that encompass the business-concepts-to-commercialization process. According to Gaynor (1996), these interrelated activities must be integrated into a technology system. MOT means not only managing the system but also managing the pieces, which involves integrating the “pieces” into an acceptable “whole” by focusing attention on the interdependence of the pieces. However, these elaborations are only part of the process of MOT by this thesis.

According to the 1987 workshop report of the National Research Council (NRC) of the USA, “Management of Technology” ...