Managing technological innovations from research to operations: a case study, introducing an improved material
CIM Bulletin, Vol. 80, No. 901, 1987
G. LUCAS Alcan International, Kingston Research and Development Centre Kingston, Ontario
Material substitution occurs continuously in response to competitive and economic pressures. Technical development can accelerate or slow substitution by improving the performance of the invading or defending material. The choices are seldom simple and have to be made in the context of continuous commercial change.
The development and commercialization of a new aluminum material is examined. The material has been introduced into several different markets, so it is possible to compare and contrast the degree of success obtained in each.
Keywords:
Materials engineering, Aluminum, Alloys, Marketing, Technological innovations, Research.
