Possessions emerges from the fifth Cambridge French Graduate Conference, which took place in 2001. The theme has provoked a broad scope of investigation, covering French literature, film and theory, and ranging from the early medieval period to the present day. Despite the lack of attention which has so far been explicitly devoted to the idea of possession, it is shown to be an ever-present concern, and this volume seeks to fill this critical blind spot. The essays confront the central notion on several levels, tackling issues of authorship and ownership, postcolonialism, gender, and the potential trauma implicated in possession. The juxtaposition of different media, periods and critical schools allows common links to emerge, demonstrating ways in which possession acts as both problem and enabling notion. As a stimulating and original investigation into an under-explored area of critical thinking, the volume offers a critical examination of the possessing power of the text.

Developing new products, services, systems and processes has become an imperative for any firm expecting to thrive in today's fast-paced and hyper-competitive environment. This volume integrates academic and practical insights to present fresh perspectives on new product development and innovation, showcasing lessons learned on the technological frontier. The first part emphasizes decision making. The second part focuses on technology evaluation, including cost-benefit analysis, material selection and scenarios. The third part features in-depth case studies to present innovation management tools, such as customer needs identification, technology standardization and risk management. The fourth part highlights important international trends, such as globalization and outsourcing. Finally the fifth part explores social and political aspects.

Developing new products, services, systems and processes has become an imperative for any firm expecting to thrive in today's fast-paced and hyper-competitive environment. This volume integrates academic and practical insights to present fresh perspectives on new product development and innovation, showcasing lessons learned on the technological frontier. The first part emphasizes decision making. The second part focuses on technology evaluation, including cost-benefit analysis, material selection and scenarios. The third part features in-depth case studies to present innovation management tools, such as customer needs identification, technology standardization and risk management. The fourth part highlights important international trends, such as globalization and outsourcing. Finally the fifth part explores social and political aspects.