Research on the relationship between new technology and productivity has just been published by The Productivity Institute. The study involved a literature review, an analysis of provision across the West Midlands, and case studies with eleven West Midlands businesses.

The research, conducted by Peter Dickinson, Emily Erickson and Chris Warhurst, concluded that management skills (core and technology related) are required to maximise the returns of new technology investments. Those companies that had a strategic approach to technology investments and management development implemented their investments more effectively.

Currently, management training in the West Midlands is not configured to support businesses to effectively implement new technology, and companies rely on technology suppliers.