Supported by the CAS Major Research Program, a group of researchers from the CAS Institute of Policy and Management (IPM) have recently completed a study to foresee China"s technology development over the next 20 years.

Since 2003, the researchers have carried out Delphi survey of the key topics that should receive priorities in the near future in eight technology fields (information, communication & electronics; energy; materials; bio-tech & medicine; advanced manufacturing; resources & environment; space; and chemistry & chemical engineering).

The researchers have developed a methodology for systematic foresight of technology development that fit China"s actualities, according to Prof. MU Rongping, leader of the research and director of IPM. They also put forward the framework for developing a technology foresight databank and technology monitoring system based on Delphi survey, laying a good foundation for future studies in technology foresight and S&T development strategy.