“ Innovation ” is the cornerstone of sustainable development enterprises, and is the driving force to create value. It can exist in any part of the business value chain process. Different industries require different elements of innovation. It must have industrial, phased and production value, in order to reach the ultimate goal of R & D. Therefore, innovative achievements and production values needs to complement each other. To further production value, enterprises should mold a high quality cultural environment while understand the industrial trends, in order to be the leader of the industry.

According to the book, “Thoughts of an Innovator”, written by scholar Ohmae Kenichi, any previously untried practices or new way of thinking all can be categorized into the scope of innovation. Innovation can be an improvement to the old methods, or a complete breakthrough in ideas. One should use their creativity in virgin territories, constantly challenge the modern standard, establish new markets and create the enterprise value of “Blue Ocean Strategy” .

Every good creative ideas, every innovative process, all should be encouraged. T his is the driving force behind the “ Industrial Innovation achievement award” created by the Ministry of Economic Affairs. Their goal is to assist enterprises in receive supports, and transform Taiwan from “Made in Taiwan ” to “Innovated in Taiwan ,” not limiting to technology breakthrough only. Industrial innovation needs to start from many small areas, the key is multi-value innovations. The hidden benefits of the series of value through innovation will be immeasurable, and that is the direction the Taiwan must work toward.

To encourage domestic enterprises, associated departments, R & D groups, and special project teams to actively research and develop new products, this department has formally sponsored “Innovation achievement activities” this year (2007). Different categories ranging from technology, products, processes, strategies, and organizations. Scoring criteria will focus on the following four areas: originality, difficulty of execution and implementation, marketing potential, influences and contribution to industry. We cordially invite people from every special case group, every department to come join us in the innovation competition.

Lastly, on behalf of the Ministry of Economic Affairs Technology Service, I would like to invite all the domestic enterprises, all groups to come join the “2007 Innovation Achievement Award” competition. At the same time, we thank you for all of your supports and comments. We hope that “Innovation Achievement Award” will stimulate domestic industries and share the joy of innovation.

Director, Department of Industrial Technology MOEA