Analyzing Indian research and development organizations: a SWOT analysis

Abstract

Purpose This SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) analysis was conducted to have a portrait of the competitiveness of Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) on the global map. Being a 75-year-old scientific organization, CSIR has raised each and every laboratory with a specific mandate and competency. It is definite that the organization would get some assistance from these points, which are briefly stated, as the institutional data reside with the laboratory only. To some extent, they can be considered on their discretion; however, the organization has raised its position to international standards, but still it can consider few areas/suggestions from this analysis. These points are suggestive and flexible in nature, which are identified and defined to elevate this organization on the globe. Scientific publications do make a difference, but on the ground, if the technologies are not viable and received by public, it makes no difference. Today, India is fortunate to have a Prime Minister like Mr Modi, who always re-evaluates the issues and solutions so that the country moves from developing to a fast-pace developed nation. It is a fact that if these research organizations reorganize themselves and prioritize the research problems, they are capable enough to become a pioneer among the world R&D industry. This paper aims to analyze the organization and suggest few points with significant findings which can assist in scaling toward excellence on a global scale. Design/methodology/approach On the basis of random sampling, laboratories were identified where their achievements and contribution toward industry and society were evaluated. On the basis of their setup, the organization and laboratories were evaluated to frame-out a SWOT analysis. Findings SWOT analysis is a deliberate technique carried out to analyze the current situation of the system and to analyze the internal and external environment, which provides and edge to the organization to sustain. The major factors assessed were manpower, machines, money and funding, and achievements and deliverables were studied. Originality/value The research, i.e. SWOT, is unique in nature, as it was not carried out earlier on such a scale. To some extent, the points suggested in SWOT and conclusion can be considered on their discretion; however, the organization has raised its position to international standards, but still it can consider few areas/suggestions from this analysis. These points are suggestive and flexible in nature, which are identified and defined to elevate this organization on the globe. Scientific publications do make a difference, but on the ground; if the technologies are not viable and received by public, it makes no difference. Today, India is fortunate to have a Prime Minister like Mr Modi, who always re-evaluates the issues and solutions so that the country moves from developing to a fast-pace developed nation. It is a fact that if these research organizations reorganize themselves and prioritize the research problems, they are capable enough to become a pioneer among the world R&D industry.