The need for creativity and innovation, common barriers and methods for idea generation.

The innovation process: Management structures, innovation best practices, managing innovations incorporate and SME sectors, knowledge transfer and intellectual property issues.

Models of innovation and technology management: theory and practice.
Brain storming tools & software such as mind mapping and data mapping

Quality issues, processes and philosophies in modern engineering.

Quality management and control and the application of specific techniques.

Industrial project management approaches to the innovation implementation process. Related life cycle issues and the application of suitable project management frameworks and methodologies.

Case studies & Industrial Visits

Two case analyses (2500 words each) -weighted at 50% each
One assignment underpins outcomes 1, 2 and 4.The other underpins 1, 2 and 3.There is an integrating theme throughout both assignments.

Must be enrolled on an MSc programme.

Tutors will provide a small handbook to guide students, it is recommended that students do further reading from one of the following texts:-

White, Magaret A, Bruton, Garry D., 'The Management & Technology', Thomson South Western, First Edition, ISBN 0-234 3565 -0, 2006
Trot, P., Innovation & Management and New Product Development, Prentice Hall, ISBN 0273-655604, 2005
Proctor T, Creative problem solving for managers, Routledge, (2005) ISBN 0415345421.
Meredith & Mantel, 5th Edition, 2003, 'Project Management - A Managerial Approach', Prentic Hall, ISBN, 0-471 07323-7
During, W., R. P. Oakey, et al., Eds. (2000) NEW TECHNOLOGY-BASED FIRMS IN THE NEW MILLENNIUM IV. Elsevier, (2005) ISBN: 0-08-044619-1, 272.
Evans, J & Lindsay, W., 'The Management and Control of Quality', West PC, ISBN: 0324202237, 2004

Access to the library, journals and web-based resources
General computing facilities

Lectures/ tutorials (2 hours per week).
Case study analysis-contact as required (1 hour per week).