Networking as a strategy for technology transfer and commercialization from R&D laboratories Key lessons from case studies in India

Managing R&D and the innovation process is closely linked with technology transfer and the commercialization of research results. This is especially so in the context of publicly-funded R&D laboratory systems in developing countries, such as India's Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). Inefficiencies in the transfer process and a lack of orientation towards the commercialization of scientific research results are predominantly responsible for ineffective public research. Against this background, the paper puts forward an argument for the adoption of a networking strategy or consortium-style operation by the various actors in the technological innovation process. To this end, the author presents case studies of specific technology development and commercialization efforts undertaken in different laboratories functioning under the CSIR. The lessons drawn from the case studies and the key elements that have led to the success of these initiatives are highlighted.