Global Technology Trends Monitoring: Theoretical Frameworks and Best Practices

Abstract

Monitoring and accurate interpretation of the data on technological trends is a key prerequisite for the gaining competitive advantages in various economic sectors. Validation of expert assessments via quantitative methods helps to reveal inexplicit signs of technological change based on the analysis of large data sets. Synthesis of qualitative and quantitative methods enables identification of global technological trends, formalization of their criteria, and creation of automated information processing tools. The paper presents an analytical review of international practices for monitoring global technology trends, as well as the key theoretical approaches and methods, which have been developed in this field.