IEE Science, Education & Management Division: Chairman´s address. R. & D. and industrial innovation

The paper deals briefly with the origins of technical innovation as an essential part of engineering activity and traces its growth and the establishment of the research and development (r. & d.) function in the technically based company. The present-day relationship between innovation and r. & d. in a company is discussed in the particular context of the organisational problems that can arise. The possible use of a `new ventures unit¿ with direct responsibility for innovation is also considered. Particular attention is given to the differing roles and attitudes of the innovator, the r. & d. manager and of top management. Some of the more significant findings of investigations into innovation are reviewed, and the future environment for innovation and the innovator is considered in terms of the constraints and rewards that may be expected.