Relationship Management for Innovation: The Central Role of Communication in Australia's Participation in Two Hi-tech Industries

Individuals make decisions about whether innovations are adopted and transferred to new uses or locations. This paper argues that relational competence is critical for innovation management and technology transfer and that personal communication, formal and informal, is the core component in such competence. It shows how 'close lies' and communication are critical to innovation, particularly given the changing nature and role of technology management in the context of rapidly increasing globalizalion. Tliis is illustrated with reference to the communication in the mindset and practice of technology partnering in Australia's participation in the aerospace and telecommunications industries.