International Technology Transfer (ITT) and development of technological capabilities in Malaysian construction industry: a conceptual framework / Assoc. Prof. Dr. Roshana Takim, Prof. Dr. Abdul Hadi Nawawi and Roshartini Omar

The phenomenon of 'international technology transfer' or ITT projects has emerged as an important business and managerial concern for many developing countries. ITT in construction is seen as an effective mechanism to advance the flow of technological development by acquiring newer technology from abroad in response to a changing economic environment. The concept of ITT in construction organisations could occur simultaneously, involving the flow of imported technology (i.e., knowledge, skills and tools) via construction projects. Thus, the aim of this research is to develop a framework to enhance implementation of International Technology Transfer (ITT) in Malaysian construction projects. Empirical research undertaken by means of Initial Survey among two academicians and three practitioners involved in technology transfer research and projects, followed by Case Studies (by means of semi-structured interviews) among the six (6) Malaysian International Companies with experience in ITT projects. The response rate was 48.6% (35 out of 72 respondents) within a-year period. The results were analysed by means of content analysis techniques using NVivo software version 8. The findings from the research were then used to develop a conceptual framework for ITT and development of technological capabilities in Malaysian construction industry. The Framework was validated using a validation questionnaire survey. The research showed that the five major factors (or components) that influence the process of international technology transfer (ITT). There are: types of technology (i.e., knowledge, skills and tools); the organisations (i.e., public and private sectors); the level of absorptive capacity; the level of technological capabilities, and benefits and barriers of ITT projects. The results of the research could provide an insight into the Malaysian construction project development and will hopefully provide valuable guidelines, especially to public or private sectors in Malaysia that are looking forward to global construction market.