Electronic Assignments
Electronic assignments should normally be between 600-800 words. Send by email address to the instructor (ps25@prism.gatech.edu) by 3.00 p.m. EST on the due date. Assignments should be posted as a text-based email message (i.e. do not use attachments). Please put assignment week number/brief title in email header (e.g. Week 1/2 - What is Industrial Modernization). (Select here for completed Winter 1998 assignments.)
Week 1/2. What is Industrial Modernization
After reviewing the materials in Program 1, discuss what you understand by the concept of "industrial modernization." Why should we be concerned with industrial modernization from a public policy perspective, if at all?
Week 3/4. Industrial Modernization Methods
Consider the types of methods and measures that are typically used in industrialized countries to promote the diffusion of enhanced technologies and manufacturing practices to small and mid-sized manufacturers. In your view, what are the strengths and weaknesses of each particular method? (Look at the "Typology of Technology Diffusion" in the Shapira/Rosenfeld background paper on Technology Diffusion Policies and Programs - but please also identify and review some other sources and combine categories of methods as necessary.)
Week 5/6. Collaboration, Technological Capability and Modernization
Why is inter-firm collaboration and networking now considered to be important to the promotion of technological capability and innovation among firms and within regions? Consider three approaches to interfirm collaboration suggested either by the seminar presenters (e.g. Rosenfeld, Julian, Kendrix, Brown) and/or the readings. Compare and contrast these three approaches.
Week 7/8. Industrial Modernization Practice
Please identify and discuss the "best practices" for operating and evaluating industrial modernization that are contained in the speakers' presentations for course sessions 7 and 8. What might constrain current programs from adopting these practices and how might an improved diffusion of these practices be achieved?
Week 9/10. The Future of Industrial Modernization
You have been asked by the Manufacturing Extension Partnership to assist in developing a new strategic plan for the development of industrial modernization programs and policies in the United States. Please outline the objectives, directions, and measures that this plan should contain.
Final Paper Assignment
Select here.