Strategic planning in technology transfer: A dialectical approach

Abstract

The decision-making approach to technolgy transfer has not received adequate attention in technology transfer studies. This paper uses the dialectical inquiry system to show how multinational corporations (MNCs) can transfer appropriate technology to less developed countries (LDCs). The process based on achieving “reasonable compatible” goals between MNCs and LDCs will lead to synergistic effects and further progress in the trasfer of technology. Conflict leads to incompatibility in goals. It is not necessary that all conflicting goals be resolved. In fact, such conflicts may contribute substantially to the perpetuation of the technological relationship. A relationship without conflict may be devoid of the dynamism that frequently arises from disharmony and dissonance. The paper further introduces the Enthalpy-Entropy cycle to show the consequences of making the right decisions as well as the consequences of poor planning and implementation of technology. The framework introduced in this paper offers a strategic planning approach that can enhance the decision-making process of both the MNCs and LCDs.