ERDA and the diffusion of innovations: a concept paper
Abstract
This paper explores the usefulness of a body of academic literature to a government agency. The diffusion of innovations literature is briefly reviewed. Ways in which this literature might prove useful to ERDA are outlined. Proposals are offered for research that would correct some of the agency-relevant deficiences of the literature. Discipline-specific conclusions are found about the factors that influence the rate of adoption of innovations. Sociologists find that interpersonal interaction and perceived compatibility are important variables. Economists focus on profitability and size of investments as explanatory variables. The relationships between these variables and their underlying theoretical constructs have been inadequately explored. ERDA's potential involvement in diffusion processes is indicated by its emphasis on commercializing energy-efficient technologies and by the funding of an Energy Extension Service. It is suggested that the diffusion of innovations literature may provide an important source of guidance for these efforts. 34 references.
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