This book emphasizes the practical side of Technology and Innovation Management. It includes significant contribution to the practice of strategizing, management of competences and innovation management. The findings presented on these selected topics are research-based, however each contribution covers the implementation of the research results.

Emphasizing the practical side of Technology and Innovation Management, this book includes significant contributions to the practice of strategizing, management of competences and innovation management. While the findings are research-based, each contribution has 'managerial implications' which cover the recommended implementation.

How can a company decide where to concentrate its expertise? Why are some companies better at exploiting their strengths than others? Is there a link between the range of a company's activities and its success and profitability? These are just some of the questions at the heart of a make or buy strategy for manufacturing business. Most companies will face issues such as these at some time or other, and in resolving them will determine the future shape of the business - for better or worse. Based on original research and case experience, this book presents a structured approach to making these important decisions. By drawing on the collective knowledge of people in the company, a make or buy strategy can be developed which focuses manufacturing capability on the factors critical to business success. The key aspects covered include: the links between business strategy, vertical integration in manufacturing industry, and business performance; why a make or buy strategy is central to manufacturing capability and business results; the difference between strategic, tactical and component make or buy issues; the best practice approach to make or buy decisions; what is involved in developing an optimal make or buy strategy for a business; how to apply the approach to your own business. The book is aimed at directors and managers from manufacturing companies concerned with developing their capabilities and focusing their strengths, but many other people in manufacturing, finance, engineering, purchasing and service operations will find something of value in this book.