A hybrid innovation management model for emerging technology: Bibliometrics, qualitative methodology, and empirical study

Compared with traditional technologies, emerging technology presents some new features, e.g. uncertainty. Corresponding, technological innovation for emerging technologies faces many kinds of risks that dramatically affect their development paths. This paper illustrates how quantitative methods (Science, Technology & Innovation (ST&I) information resources) and qualitative approaches (experts input and technology assessment) could support the decision making through the different stages of technological innovation for the public or private sector in the emerging technology industry. It uses dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) as a case example. The combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches should yield robust assessment and should facilitate communication of results. It is useful for technology managers and policy-makers to grasp the development process and prospects for a specific emerging technology to facilitate innovation management.