Learning from patents : an application of technology intelligence in nanotechnology

Technology is a strategic asset for an increasing number of firms that nurture their competitiveness through innovation. Accordingly, fostering inno-vation, exploiting technological opportunities and avoiding threats are increas-ingly important issues within their strategies. Firms need to support their deci-sion-making processes by investing in technology intelligence system in order to protect their products from competitors’ aggressive actions or to exploit new emerging technological trajectories. This paper presents some actions that a Technology Intelligence System (TIS) can accommodate, drawing upon patent analysis. The main purpose of patent analysis is to enable firms to monitor and assess technological developments and other areas of concern. Such technology management activities assist firms in evaluating their environment while taking advantage of new emerging technological trends. The methodology is described in detail using an application con-ducted in nanotech patents