Supporting distributed and integrated execution of future-oriented technology analysis

Abstract

Large organizations usually spread their research and development (R&D) around the world, hindering coordination efforts when performing future-oriented technology analysis (FTA) studies. FTA is commonly used in R&D planning, especially on research prioritization. Therefore, we developed an FTA framework for large and geographically spread organizations, named Tiamat. The Tiamat framework is composed of a simplified organization model, which focuses on internal and external interactions during FTA, and an FTA process, which indicates the steps performed by the decision-maker need until the delivery of the FTA final report from the organization. Based on the Tiamat framework, we developed the Tiamat software, a modular tool that implements generic FTA using the concept of workflows of FTA methods. Thus, we describe the architecture and collaboration aspects of the Tiamat software. The Tiamat framework (i.e., model and process) and the Tiamat software were applied in real situations to evaluate its FTA support capability. Besides, we show non-FTA uses of the Tiamat software to showcase its flexibility. Among the contributions, we highlight the use of the Tiamat framework in the management of a standardized FTA process, based on the concept of workflows. The framework was developed to be easily adapted to many types of organizations, such as businesses, universities, and public institutions, either civil or military. The Tiamat software has shown to be capable to support distributed and local FTA studies, as well non-FTA studies.