Technology forecast: a case study in Daiken company

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to describe how the technology forecast process occurs at a technology-based company named Daiken, a Brazilian electronics industry, located in the state of Parana. The study helps to clarify the context that tech-companies in Brazil face when trying to forecast new technologies. Design/methodology/approach The paper opted for a case study, in a qualitative and descriptive approach. Primary data were collected through a semi-structured interview and non-participant observation. Secondary data were generated through documentary research. Findings Outcomes indicate that, for the studied case, technology forecast practices are adopted in an informal and unsystematic way, best aligned to the nature of competitive intelligence. Research limitations/implications Because of the chosen research approach, the results may lack generalizability. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to test the propositions further. Practical implications The paper includes implications for the adjustment of technology forecast tools to the reality seen in emergent nations like Brazil. Originality/value This paper fulfills an identified need to study how to conduct the technology forecast processes in small and mid-tech-companies in Brazil.