CREATION PROCESS FOR A LABORATORY-OBSERVATORY-CONSULTORY ON TECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT AND INNOVATION

In order to increase the potential of generating knowledge and innovation at the Autonomous University of Queretaro (UAQ) a multidisciplinary learning space called Laboratory of Management Technologies and Innovations has been created as a real effort to link the productive sector projects with the University programs. Such unit actually acts as a laboratory - Observatory - consultory in areas such as management consulting, information technology, engineering, medical and administrative sciences.

In order to achieve innovation (where innovation is something that impacts society in a positive way) here we present the analysis and the generated model for the operation of a laboratory of technology management that resides inside an educational institution. For this purpose we have constructed a model using concepts brought from the philosophy of science and technology that generate a direct interaction between students of different levels and subjects along with segments of both the industry and the university. The laboratory’s personnel are of a multidisciplinary nature allowing the development of projects from a variety of disciplines. Also, it is important to highlight that our laboratory is totally self-sustained and have not required funds from the university budget. All technological equipment along with scholarships and salaries have always been covered with the projects income.

The model may be seen as a process with inputs and outputs. Inputs are represented by specific industry requirements whereas outputs are technological products, processes and/or expert´s advice. The actors involved are the government, the industry and the university. Altogether they interact with equity as opposite to outdated models where each actor would seek unique privileges and benefits generating a competition rather than cooperation. Synergy between actors is therefore the most important objective to achieve. The results obtained so far, have shown impact on both the industry and the university therefore allowing society to receive benefits at different levels.