NASA/DoD Aerospace Knowledge Diffusion Research Project. Paper Twelve: The Diffusion of Federally Funded Aerospace Research and Development (R and D) and the Information Seeking Behavior of U.S. Aerospace Engineers and Scientists
Abstract
The diffusion of knowledge resulting from federally funded aerospace research and development (R and D) is indispensable in maintaining the vitality and international competitiveness of the U.S. aerospace industry. This knowledge is understood to be central to innovation and its management and crucial to the technical performance of aerospace engineers and scientists. However, little is known about the diffusion of federally funded R and D and the aerospace knowledge diffusion process itself. Whereas knowledge resulting from federally funded aerospace R and D is understood to be a valuable strategic resource for innovation, problem solving, and productivity, linkages between the various sectors of the R and D infrastructure are weak, poorly defined, and, in some cases, simply not understood. It is assumed, however, that the ability of engineers and scientists to identify, acquire, and utilize this knowledge is of paramount importance to the efficiency of aerospace R and D. Understanding knowledge diffusion, therefore, is a precursor to the rapid diffusion of federally funded aerospace R and D and to maximizing the aerospace R and D process. both, however, require an understanding of the information-seeking behavior of U.S. aerospace engineers and scientists.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA246342
Entities
People
- John M. Kennedy
- Rebecca O. Barclay
- Thomas E. Pinelli
Organizations
- Langley Research Center