Model for measuring technological maturity for critical sector industries

Abstract

This theoretical work addresses the maturity models related to innovation processes that can be applied in critical industries such as the aerospace-defense sector in Colombia. It responds to the need to articulate the local industry, technical and innovation capabilities, regulatory aspects, scalability and the observed market. It proposes a model to measure an innovation process's readiness level in these sectors, applicable to decision-making processes, development centers, and the country's leading sectors. It offers a theoretical basis and a tool to be applied in the decision-making process to help minimize the inherent risks to the innovation process in the sector. The method used was mixed; first, a review of the state-of-the-art and a scientometric analysis was carried out to determine factors subsequently validated by experts, which gave rise to variables with a high degree of relevance in generating innovative products or services. These were modeled through structural equations considering variables covering the innovation cycle, considering market, industry, and technology criteria, which minimize risk until integrating the absorption of the innovative product. Finally, the model was refined through exercises with experts related to the sector from academia, industry, research centers, innovation and the end user of the innovation products. The paper proposes a theoretical measuring model of technological maturity of innovation and a flow chart that could serve as a tool for measuring technological readiness. The model could be a tool for an organization's decision-making, as it visualizes technology, market and regulation as critical factors in the innovation cycle.