Toward Integrated Innovation Roadmapping: Lessons From Multiple Functional Roadmaps Beyond Technology R&D

Abstract

Originally developed for strategic planning and foresight of technological development, roadmapping techniques are increasingly being used to support strategy development for other functional activities of innovation systems (e.g., the development of skills, infrastructure, and standards). While the conventional technology roadmaps focus on innovation pathways for technology development, considering other functions as contextual factors explored in less detail, the functional roadmaps dedicated to certain innovation functions (e.g., standardization) give these functions centrality and greater granularity within the roadmapping architecture. Because different functional roadmaps are developed by different communities of stakeholders with different interests, often using different languages, it is challenging to share information and manage knowledge between them. This can result in disconnected and misaligned strategies for complementary innovation efforts which, in turn, increase the potential risks of inefficient use of resources and missed opportunities to capture greater value from technology R&D. In order to address these challenges, this article introduces the concept of integrated innovation roadmapping, which is designed to support the systematic integration and alignment of multiple functional roadmaps. It does so by exploring recent efforts by multiorganizational networks to develop complementary roadmaps for diverse innovation functions beyond just technology R&D. By identifying challenges associated with their integration and practical steps to address them, the article provides guidance on how integrated innovation roadmapping processes can be structured and organized to ensure effective knowledge management and alignment among multiple functional roadmaps.