Lean Technology Roadmapping: Assessing the Value Path of Existing Approaches and Exploring Process Improvements

Abstract

For the past half a century, the practice of Technology Roadmapping (TRM) has been invaluable in helping companies align technology initiatives with business strategies. However, its successful implementation often requires significant investment, representing a challenge for companies with limited resources, especially start-ups. This study aims to understand how various roadmapping methods differ regarding value delivery and explores ways to optimize initial investments in TRM to maximize their value. To achieve this objective, this thesis integrates theoretical insights from analyzing established methods with practical perspectives from a case study. The analysis portion of the research models roadmapping as a system and dissects the value delivery mechanism of two different TRM methods. The case study examines the experimental roadmapping process implemented at a technology-intensive energy start-up in a real-world setting. The analysis component of the study concluded that, while both methods aim to align strategic priorities with technology initiatives, they differ in their approach: one relies on verbal communication and facilitation, and the other employs equations and models to rationalize R&D project priorities quantitatively. An estimated investment of approximately 200 hours is considered sufficient to derive initial value from either method. Results from the case study showed that it is feasible to produce an initial roadmap within a start-up environment with an investment of approximately 100 man-hours, depending on the scope and complexity of the roadmap. This streamlined approach primarily enhances cross-functional communication as its key benefit and produces a simple visual roadmap using existing company documentation. The findings from this research can assist companies in aligning their investments more effectively with their roadmapping needs and setting realistic expectations about the required resource investments to achieve certain minimum benefits from TRM. The case study provides insights into the application technology roadmapping within a start-up, highlighting practical challenges, areas of improvement, and potential for generalization.