Editorial - 25-10

The world of technology development for the military is complex and fraught with uncertainty. Just ask the people behind a unique technology roadmapping initiative that has been more than two years in development (see lead story). The Soldier Systems Technology Roadmap (SSTRM) involves about 1,000 different technologies spread over six technical domains and 20 theme areas yet they comprise distinct systems designed to make the Canadian soldier more effective in the theatre of war.

What makes SSTRM different from all other roadmapping processes is its enthusiastic embrace of open innovation and Internet-based software, expanding its potential benefits far beyond the future needs of the Department of National Defence. Industry Canada, which developed the process, acknowledges that it may not work for all industry sectors, but for companies seeking future work based on a defined set of technologies and technology groupings, their horizons are truly global. Companies from 18 countries attended the workshops.

If SSTRM works the way its designers intend, the initiative has breakthough potential for industry, opening up markets and offering unprecedented opportunities for collaboration with other firms, academia and government.

Imagine the impact if the initiative had money attached to it. SSTRM has done the next best thing in identifying existing funding programs and offering assistance. But dedicated funds would enhance and streamline the process, helping to boost industrial R&D spending and GDP to even greater heights.