Elsevier

Research Policy

Volume 14, Issue 5, October 1985, Pages 235-251
Research Policy

The interaction of design hierarchies and market concepts in technological evolution

https://doi.org/10.1016/0048-7333(85)90007-1Get rights and content

Abstract

This paper develops a conceptual framework for analyzing the sequence of technological changes that underlie the development of industries. The framework examines the interaction between design decisions and the coices of customers. Using examples from autos and semiconductors the paper argues that the logic of problem solving in design and the formation of concepts that underlie choice in the marketplace impose a hierarchical structure on the evolution of technology. The nature of the evolutionary process has implications for the dynamics of competition and the management of innovation.

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    The research was supported by the Division of Research, Harvard Business School. I have benefited from discussions with William J. Abernathy, Richard S. Rosenbloom, Alan M. Kantrow, Steven C. Wheelwright, Eric von Hippel and John Corcoran. Two referees and the editor provided helpful comments.

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