The CTO Playbook for Innovation Strategy in Engineering – 2 : The Importance of Thematic Focus

Thematic Focus: A Strategic Imperative

In our previous discussion, we identified the three main factors influencing CTO decision-making: the pace of change, the convergence of digital and physical innovations, and unpredictable external forces. These factors underscore the importance of having a thematic focus to guide our engineering and technological efforts, and the way we prioritise.

At Capgemini Engineering, we have developed five key themes that help anchor our strategic direction. These themes emerged organically, reflecting the bottom-up recognition of crucial areas that are influence our customers every day. They are interconnected, highlighting the multifaceted nature of modern engineering challenges. Below I have outlined the rationale behind each one:

Five Themes Driving Engineering Innovation

1. Organic Engineering:

Organic engineering is inspired by the resilience and efficiency observed in natural systems. This theme focuses on designing products and systems that are both autonomous and efficient, much like nature itself. The aim is to create engineering solutions that can adapt and evolve, ensuring long-term sustainability and resilience in the face of disruptions such as those seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. This approach is evident in innovations like additive manufacturing, where nature-inspired lattice structures enhance product strength and flexibility.

2. Resource Revolution:

The resource revolution theme addresses the critical need to engineer materials at a molecular level to meet specific requirements that natural materials cannot fulfil. This theme is about creating materials with tailored properties, such as high thermal conductivity and low expansion rates, which are essential for advancing various technological fields. This revolutionary approach marks a significant departure from traditional engineering practices and is key to driving future innovations.

3. Hybrid AI:

Hybrid AI combines classical machine learning with advanced artificial intelligence, grounding AI applications in solid, defensible knowledge bases. This theme focuses on leveraging AI to enhance human capabilities rather than replace them, ensuring that both human intuition and machine efficiency are optimally utilised. The development of augmented engineering tools - where AI assists engineers in making more informed decisions; and autonomous systems in defence, where human machine teaming reduces the need to put people in harm's way to achieve military outcomes, are both examples in practice.

4. Digital Fabric:

The digital fabric theme encompasses the foundational technologies that enable advanced computing and connectivity, such as 5G connectivity, edge computing, and advanced data architectures. These technologies are crucial for supporting the other themes by providing the necessary infrastructure for real-time data processing, communication, and system integration. This interconnected digital ecosystem allows for seamless integration and scalability of engineering solutions.

5. Positive Futures:

This theme addresses the societal and ethical implications of technological advancements. It emphasises the need for responsible innovation that considers the broader impact on society and the environment. This theme is particularly apparent in the context of autonomous vehicles and AI, where the social acceptance and safety of these technologies are paramount. Engineers must ensure that their innovations contribute positively to society, fostering trust and acceptance.

The power of themes for the CTO

Having a solid thematic focus provides a strategic framework that helps CTOs balance innovation; practicality; and societal responsibility to overcome the dilemma of what to progress and what to hold off on. By aligning engineering efforts with themes that are uniquely relevant to their organisation's strategy, CTOs can ensure that they anchor their decisions around what really matters in the areas that will enable them to achieve their corporate goals - be they commercial; environmental; or societal. Engineering, with its focus on practical application and real-world problem-solving, remains the cornerstone of this journey, guiding us through the ever-changing landscape of technology and innovation.

Authors

Related