Sustainable Development
The phrase 'sustainable development' is nothing new, given how it was one of the important chapters in the secondary school Social Studies curriculum. Singapore's definition of sustainable development is growing the country in a way that is efficient, clean and green. Various measures have been implemented to ensure energy efficiency and minimise pollution. To the government's credit, most of them are highly effective. Nevertheless, Singapore remains one of the most energy intensive economies in Asia, and nearly all our energy comes from non-renewable sources (i.e. natural gas and oil). Things are likely to remain this way, as there are no plans to move away from manufacturing, which forms the bulk of our energy consumption. Technology can help us to increase our energy efficiency and perhaps gradually shift towards renewable energy sources, but as far as the present and near future are concerned, Singapore's development is not and will not truly be sustainable.
For countries that can easily tap on renewable energy sources e.g. tidal, wind, it is much easier to move towards sustainable development. But doing so requires a huge amount of political will and signficant government investment. If resources like coal and oil are readily available and more economical than renewable alternatives, there will be little or no impetus to change. Sustainable development also requires a change in mindset and attitudes. There has to be greater emphasis on recycling and other environment-friendly practices, both at an individual and commercial level.
Innovation Management
The Shahi landscape model for technology was an interesting categorisation of the various business opportunties available. The value creation pipeline adequately represents the process of innovation, and seems rather obvious, though I suppose that a diagram does aid in understanding to some extent. I think success in innovation is a combination of an insightful idea, hard work and a large dose of good luck. It's hard to put it into a formula, and no amount of study or learning can guarantee success.
