Methods and tools contributing to FTA: A knowledge-based perspective

Abstract

Future oriented technology analysis (FTA) applied to innovation policy and practice often goes well beyond the narrow domain of technology forecasting. It is oriented to supporting the functioning and development of innovation systems, and involves mutual learning processes, involving stakeholders and experts of many kinds. Such FTA calls for crossing the boundaries of disciplines, research traditions, and professional activities FTA then necessarily involves knowledge management (whether this be formal or implicit); and this knowledge management has to confront the challenges created by FTA's call for engagement across different – and across potentially competing – corporate, sectoral, and public interests. This paper explores the consequences of this view of FTA and how the roles of various FTA methods and tools are seen in terms of knowledge management. It goes on to discuss the implications that follow for FTA design, and the methodological challenges, and requirements for development of tools, techniques and principles, for FTA. The challenges of participatory knowledge management are seen to be particularly important ones to tackle.