MANAGEMENT OF NATIONAL TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS IN A NEWLY INDUSTRIALIZED COUNTRY - TAIWAN

Partly triggered by the Japanese VLSI program, Taiwan launched eight national technology programs in the early 1980s. But because of its technologically 'imitative' and 'dependent' position, Taiwan's experience in these programs is rather different from most industrialized countries. First, government has to play a pivotal role because industry lacks strong technical capability. Secondly, a 'national champion', institutional adjustments and overall development framework are crucial. Thirdly, the 'whole innovation process' approach is very instrumental by exposing the systemic weaknesses in the national innovation system and directing new investment. Fourthly, technological convergence and standardization in advanced countries greatly helps concentrate national efforts. Fifthly, there are many pitfalls in technology transfer and technical service to industry. Finally, the national programs challenge administrative systems, major R&D institutes and the grand national plan to upgrade themselves.