Proposed holistic framework for managing development of road infrastructure technology in South Africa

The technology development process for the public sector in the transportation industry in South Africa became fragmented as a result of a short-term view with a lack of strategic focus. The subsequent perceived poor performance of the technology development program and inadequate implementation of results motivated the development of a new model for technology development-utilizing a holistic, systems approach at the strategic level with supporting techniques and basic information. The conceptual development of the new technology development model implemented in South Africa is discussed and the use of some of the concepts in the planning and execution of technology development programs for the Southern African Bitumen Association (Sabita) and the South African Department of Transport (SADoT) are illustrated. It is concluded that technology transfer and implementation would be much more effective if it were conducted as part of the technology development system.