A functions approach to improve sectoral technology roadmaps

The roadmap approach has been used to develop future-oriented analysis (FTA) linking technology/innovation, policy, business and social drivers. There has been a growing interest in introducing a systems perspective within the roadmap approach, especially at sectoral level. This paper proposes the use of the 'functions of innovation systems' as drivers/layers within sectoral roadmaps, with the purpose of directing decision-making and policy making efforts towards the functions. We provide the case study of a sectoral roadmap exercise aiming at establishing a non-existing automotive sector in Santa Catarina State, Brazil (a sector which does not exist at present time in the region) by means of integrating the 'functions apprdach' with the roadmapping process. We find the 'functions approach' to be a useful approach to support the development of future-oriented analysis by making explicit the current and desired future states of each system's function. (C) 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.