A strategic analysis of intangible factors in technology investment

Investing in Manufacturing Technologies (MT) is vital to companies¿ competitiveness. However, many associated pros and cons are intangible by nature, harder to quantify or estimate. Increased flexibility, improved manufacturing control, better working conditions have often been overlooked within the MT justification process. This research proposes a balanced intangible framework and process to MT justification. The aim is to provide a framework to assist managers in identifying and `quantifying¿ intangible factors, and a `balanced¿ MT justification allowing intangible factors to be incorporated into the decision-making. This paper introduces the proposed framework and process, and describes the preliminary outcomes from an initial case study. Finally, the research implications and directions for future research are discussed.