A Delphi Study on Technical and Socio-Economic Perspectives of Nanotechnology and ICT Industries Relations

Abstract

By using the Delphi technique and a case study on Malaysia’s nanotechnology research and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) industries, this paper aims to determine the development and convergence of nanotechnology and ICT innovation systems from the perspective of science-industry relations. A total of 25 experts have provided their opinions and consensus on the present stage and possible future scenarios of nanotech-ICT development from four dimensions: technology landscape, economic viability, governance, and social acceptance. Results from two survey rounds indicate that the Malaysian ICT innovation system is presently economically viable and easily accepted by the market. The best-case scenario can be achieved with the help of nanotechnology. This would also require the implementation of policies and regulations from government. Although industrial and social adoption and the acceptance of nanotechnology are already strong, government is responsible for creating various programs to ensure greater awareness and development of knowledge.