Enhanced Technology Transfer Through Strategic Planning, Partnering, and Model Integration

A new approach to technology transfer (T²) under way at the Pennsylvania Local Technical Assistance Program (LTAP) is presented. The approach arose from a need to increase T² efficiency and effectiveness. The model and processes draw from functional theories and methods within the areas of business, education, evaluation, and organization. T² is a dynamic and complex process often treated and associated with the more concrete disciplines of training and education. Until recently, little existed to conceptualize and apply a systematized deployment and assessment of T² intended for infrastructure improvement in transportation. The processes and models presented offer creative responses to pertinent issues in this area. Strategic planning principles based on Bryson’s model for public and nonprofit organizations, coupled with network-based decision-making software used by the Pennsylvania LTAP center, are described. Strategic objectives common to other key organizations were identified to arrive at a partnering scheme that penetrates three organizational functions: strategic operations, product/service development, and implementation/marketing. Central to this partnering scheme is a new T² integration model. This customer-driven model provides a framework for integrating strategic objectives among partners, a basis for guiding shared research and development activities, a systematic and economic approach to T², and a methodology for evaluating T² effects. Critical issues in transportation T² are addressed, and proactive responses and practical steps now under way in Pennsylvania are offered.