THE Technology Transfer Programme operated by the Hong Kong Industrial Technology Centre forms strong links between people from both the technological and industrial sectors. The HKITC uses exhibitions, seminars, symposiums, technology promotion tours and a quarterly magazine to promote the transfer of technology information. 'By bringing together engineers and businessmen, you let them see the fuller picture,' said James Liu, the HKITC's chief executive officer. 'Our technology exchange forums on business application and opportunities offer an insight into both engineering applications and business opportunities. 'This allows people to better understand both sides of the industry and, therefore, make sound practical decisions. 'It acts like a match-maker and can drastically reduce the time it takes from a technology idea being developed to its complete implementation in the workplace or service sector.' The HKITC has previously organised seminars and workshops in conjunction with other professional bodies, including the Hong Kong Productivity Council, the Institution of Electrical Engineers and tertiary institutions. Those who have attended have been able to listen to local and international industrialists and researchers expressing their views on the latest developments and trends in technology. To complement the HKITC's four main focus areas of technology development - Multimedia and Networking, Telecommunications, Software and Systems and Micro-electronics and Components - four technology panels have been formed. These include professors of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and the City University of Hong Kong. The panels act like advisory boards to the companies that are tenants or members of the HKITC's incubation programme. Its members offer expert advice to those who need assistance in a particular technological area. They also vet papers for presentation at quarterly conferences and source exhibits for exhibitions held by the HKITC. 'We are continually looking at ways to improve the communication channels for the distribution of technology information,' Mr Liu said. 'The technical reading area in the tech centre is a rich source of information, while the Business and Technology Information Quarterly magazine reaches many people in the industry as well as adventure capitalists and academics.' The HKITC's sophisticated computer system allows users to log on to a variety of network servers that enable them to gain access to valuable research and development information. The HKITC is linked to the Internet via its own client/server local-area network (LAN. 'The Internet is another way of being able to present all the information in a written, organised form,' Mr Liu said. 'It is a very useful tool in the promotion of technology information.'
