Technology assessment for emerging technology

The rapid pace of technological change, coupled with a pressing need for solutions to address grand societal challenges and global crises, heightens the challenge policy makers develop science, technology innovation policies at speed, in situations high uncertainty and, some cases, around potentially controversial fields. Technology assessment (TA) has long history providing decision-makers timely strategic intelligence on emerging technologies. Current demands are pushing TA evolve order fulfil diverse functions: illuminate societal, economic, environmental other consequences new technologies; inform public opinion; guide research development. Drawing nine case studies, this report analyses response practices these changing drivers support It also identifies set principles good contemporary practice.