IIW White Paper

Table 8.1 Key actions and key activities of IIW Members (cont.) Key actions E. Adopt, adapt and implement technology diffusion activities

Key activities • Support, back-up and guidance to technology receptors • Expert Technology Tools • Product and process improvement support • Commercialisation • Assess the value • Benchmark – SME performance • National statistics – collate and use (including benchmarking) • Create additional research projects • Improve national and international Standards • Improve local technology support centres • Improve local training facilities • Improve technology diffusion activities

F. Measure improved performance and benefits

G. Feedback

• Reporting successes (globally) • Reporting failures (globally)

8.2.3 IIWWeldCare Programme Through the IIWBoard of Directors Working Group Regional Activities and Liaison with Developing Countries, IIW is endeavouring to assist countries throughout the world, utilise many of these communication and technology diffusion strategies. This is done through the IIW WeldCare Programme. IIW has tremendous strength in its member countries. Its member societies have resources to assist in establishing within a particular country or region: An organisation that would be responsible for the promotion of welding technology and related disciplines. The required welding education and training infrastructures. The appropriate technologies to assist the different industries being established and able to be self sustaining.

A proper business plan for each country would, however, need to be devised, financially supported and implemented with appropriate milestones and key performance indicators.

Depending upon the geographic size of the country, its industrial size and distribution an appropriate master plan should be possible.

Such a plan would consider assistance to companies through: Provision of Technical Information and Advice. Technical Problem Solving. Applied Research and Development. Transfer of Technology. Related Training.

The WeldCare Programme is based on a model of Technology Innovation, initially implemented in Australia, and now promoted throughout the world.

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Through Optimum Use and Innovation of Welding and Joining Technologies

Improving Global Quality of Life