Technology transfer and acquisitions (TAA) refers to the process of acquiring technology in a country from other countries. Acquiry includes activities like transfer of technology, adoption of new technology, utilization of technology, and exchange of technology. It also includes the process by which technology is transferred to organizations that specialize in certain fields. These specialists are then trained in using the technology.
There are several factors that determine the type of TAA strategies that an organization can adopt. One factor is managerial capability. This is a key determinant for many organizations that have to engage in technological transfer and acquisitions. The organizational culture should be developed so that it can be adapted to the new technologies. Achieving this capability involves the training of the managerial staff and improving their knowledge of the technological issues that face the company.
Another factor is technological transfer and acquisitions that involve the exchange of information technology. Information technology transfer enables one to exchange information and its related procedures and processes. It also involves the transfer of technical knowledge and skilled and trained staff to the organization. This facilitates improvements and adoption of managerial capability in that it allows better allocation of resources. Tanzania is a small country that has a large supply of minerals that is necessary for its people to live their lives comfortably.
A major part of technology transfer and acquisition deals with the development of managerial capability. This develops skills, knowledge, and knowledge base in employees that will improve their efficiency in using technological systems. There are many programs that are designed to enhance the organizational effectiveness of its employees. The main programs include development of better manufacturing processes and acquiring the latest technology that improves managerial capability. Improved managerial capability enables organizations to be able to acquire relevant technology that enhances their capacity to compete successfully in the global market.
Technology transfer and acquisition do not only involve the acquisition of needed technology but also contributes to the improvement of organizational capability in its operational and strategic development. This is achieved through improved integration process and more efficient use of the acquired know-how. One example is changing the current production model that uses manual material handling methods to achieve greater productivity. Another example is the use of computer systems that facilitate the collection and compilation of data that would otherwise have been manually processed. Transfer and integration also take place at a management level by integrating the acquired know-how into the existing framework of the organization.
Technology transfer and acquisition are important in improving organizational effectiveness and in creating a competitive advantage over the other organizations that may be similar to or competing with your organization in the global market. It provides a competitive advantage because it allows organizations to adopt new technologies quickly that could bring about significant changes to their business models. In developing countries, technology transfer and acquisition may be a very slow process. It could even be a lengthy one, as many obstacles and complexities are unique to developing countries. However, certain principles could be applied for the enhancement of knowledge transfer and the facilitation of technology transfer and adoption.