Survey of Advanced Technology, 2014

Advanced Material Handling, Supply Chain and Logistics Technologies: Use of advanced technologies - Question identifier:1.

Does your enterprise use or plan to use any of the following Advanced Material Handling, Supply Chain and Logistics Technologies?

Include: advanced technologies that are owned, leased or licensed, used as a service (e.g., cloud computing) or acquired through partnership.

Exclude: advanced technologies of suppliers and those not located inside your enterprise (e.g., contracted-out activities), except technologies used as a service (e.g., cloud computing).

Note: For additional definition(s) or explanation(s) refer to the Help button.

a. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software
b. Software for demand forecasting or demand planning
c. Transportation management system
d. Warehouse Management System (WMS)
e. Supply chain collaboration and visibility systems
f. Automated Storage (AS) and Retrieval System (RS)
g. Automated products and parts identification (e.g., bar or QR coding)
h. Radio frequency identification (RFID)

Help definitions

Enterprise is defined on the 'Business and Contact Information' screen - your survey answers should reflect the operations of the enterprise based on this definition.

Technology includes the technical means and know-how required to produce a product or service. It takes the form of equipment, materials, processes, blueprints and knowledge.

Advanced technology is new technology that performs a new function or improves some function significantly better than other commonly used technology. For the purposes of this survey, the technology that is considered to be advanced is found in Questions 1, 8, 15, 16 and 23.

Advanced Material Handling, Supply Chain and Logistic Technologies:

a. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software encompasses the capabilities, methodologies, and technologies that support an enterprise in managing customer relations.

b. Software for demand forecasting or demand planning is used to plan and manage supplies and resources for future production.

c. Transportation Management System is a software program to deal with the management and logistics involved in transporting and shipping raw materials and goods to their destination; also included in the transportation of finished goods to resellers or consumers.

d. Warehouse Management System (WMS) is a software program designed to direct the flow of materials both into and out of specific storage locations.

e. Supply chain collaboration and visibility systems: Supply chain visibility (SCV) is the ability to track parts, components or products in transit from the manufacturer to their final destination. The goal of SCV is to improve and strengthen the supply chain by making data readily available to all stakeholders, including the customer. SCV technology promotes quick response to change by allowing privileged users to take action and reshape demand or redirect supply.

f. Automated Storage (AS) and Retrieval System (RS) is an automated, mechanized system for moving merchandise into storage locations and retrieving it when needed.

g. Part identification for automation (e.g., bar coding) is a method of identifying components so that they can be identified using an electronic scan. Bar coding is a method of encoding data for fast and accurate readability. Bar codes are a series of alternating bars and spaces of various widths printed or stamped on products, labels or other media, representing encoded information which is read by electronic readers called bar code scanners. Also included is lot numbering (e.g., batch numbering) for similar components or items that are made in groups at the same time.

h. Radio frequency identification (RFID) is called RFID tags, transporters or other identification tags. The purpose could be applied to supply change management, loss prevention or just-in time inventory controls, track the movement or condition of products after production when they are shipped to their next destination for sale or consumption. Also included is tracking of sale frequency and or buying patterns of consumers.

• ( ): No plan to use or not applicable
• ( ): Plan to use within two years
• ( ): Have used for three years or less
• ( ): Have used for more than three years

Advanced Material Handling, Supply Chain and Logistics Technologies: Objectives of adoption - Question identifier:2.

Indicate the extent to which your enterprise has achieved the following objectives by adopting Advanced Material Handling, Supply Chain and Logistics Technologies.

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

a. Improve the production process
b. Develop new products
c. Improve the quality of products
d. Product differentiation
e. Improve market share
f. Lower environmental impact
g. Improve organizational flexibility
h. Meet requirements of supply-chain partners
i. Lower operating expenses
j. Meet regulatory standards

List of Advanced Material Handling, Supply Chain and Logistic Technologies:

a. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software
b. Software for demand forecasting or demand planning
c. Transportation Management System
d. Warehouse Management System (WMS)
e. Supply chain collaboration and visibility systems
f. Automated Storage (AS) and Retrieval System (RS)
g. Part identification for automation (e.g., bar or QR coding)
h. Radio frequency identification (RFID)

• ( ): Objective not met
• ( ): Objective met
• ( ): Objective exceeded
• ( ): Not applicable

Advanced Material Handling, Supply Chain and Logistics Technologies: Objectives of adoption - Question identifier:3.

Has your enterprise achieved other objective(s) by adopting Advanced Material Handling, Supply Chain and Logistics Technologies?

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

List of Advanced Material Handling, Supply Chain and Logistic Technologies:

a. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software
b. Software for demand forecasting or demand planning
c. Transportation Management System
d. Warehouse Management System (WMS)
e. Supply chain collaboration and visibility systems
f. Automated Storage (AS) and Retrieval System (RS)
g. Part identification for automation (e.g., bar or QR coding)
h. Radio frequency identification (RFID)

• ( ): Yes, list of other objective(s) achieved
• ( ): No

Advanced Material Handling, Supply Chain and Logistics Technologies: Objectives of adoption - Question identifier:4.

For the other objective(s) that you have indicated, to what extent has your enterprise achieved them?

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

List of Advanced Material Handling, Supply Chain and Logistic Technologies:

a. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software
b. Software for demand forecasting or demand planning
c. Transportation Management System
d. Warehouse Management System (WMS)
e. Supply chain collaboration and visibility systems
f. Automated Storage (AS) and Retrieval System (RS)
g. Part identification for automation (e.g., bar or QR coding)
h. Radio frequency identification (RFID)

• ( ): Objective met
• ( ): Objective exceeded

Advanced Material Handling, Supply Chain and Logistics Technologies: Obstacles of adoption - Question identifier:5.

Please check the major obstacle(s) encountered by your enterprise when adopting Advanced Material Handling, Supply Chain and Logistics technologies.

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

List of Advanced Material Handling, Supply Chain and Logistic Technologies:

a. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software
b. Software for demand forecasting or demand planning
c. Transportation Management System
d. Warehouse Management System (WMS)
e. Supply chain collaboration and visibility systems
f. Automated Storage (AS) and Retrieval System (RS)
g. Part identification for automation (e.g., bar or QR coding)
h. Radio frequency identification (RFID)

• [ ]: Lack of employee training
• [ ]: Employees' resistance to change
• [ ]: Difficulty in recruiting qualified staff
• [ ]: Low return on investment or long payback period
• [ ]: Difficulty in accessing funding (e.g., bank, private companies)
• [ ]: Difficulty in accessing financial or non-financial support from the federal government
• [ ]: Difficulty in accessing financial or non-financial support from the provincial government
• [ ]: Organizational rigidity of the enterprise
• [ ]: Difficulty in integrating new advanced technologies with existing systems, standards and processes
• [ ]: Decisions made elsewhere in the organization and not in the enterprise itself
• [ ]: Lack of technical support or services (from consultants or vendors)
• [ ]: Other obstacle - specify:
• OR [ ]: No obstacle was encountered

Advanced Material Handling, Supply Chain and Logistics Technologies: Obstacles of adoption - Question identifier:6.

Which measures did your enterprise take to reduce obstacle(s) to the adoption of Advanced Material Handling, Supply Chain and Logistics Technologies?

Note: For definitions or to see the list of included technologies refer to the Help button.

List of Advanced Material Handling, Supply Chain and Logistic Technologies:

a. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software
b. Software for demand forecasting or demand planning
c. Transportation Management System
d. Warehouse Management System (WMS)
e. Supply chain collaboration and visibility systems
f. Automated Storage (AS) and Retrieval System (RS)
g. Part identification for automation (e.g., bar or QR coding)
h. Radio frequency identification (RFID)

• [ ]: Performance bonuses
• [ ]: Improved working conditions (e.g., flexible hours, health and safety)
• [ ]: College and university recruitment
• [ ]: Offer training as needed for the needs of the organization
• [ ]: Calling in consultants or subcontracting for short-term needs
• [ ]: Collaborating with universities or research centres to develop advanced technologies
• [ ]: Collaborating with other enterprise(s) or client(s)
• [ ]: Acquiring another enterprise that had already developed the required advanced technology
• [ ]: Seeking government support (e.g., technical, financial)
• [ ]: Seeking support from professional organizations
• [ ]: Other measure - specify:
• OR [ ]: No measures were taken

Advanced Material Handling, Supply Chain and Logistics Technologies: Capital expenditures - Question identifier:7.

Between the years 2012 and 2014, did your enterprise make capital expenditures in Advanced Material Handling, Supply Chain and Logistics Technologies?

Include: advanced technologies that are owned, leased or licensed, used as a service (e.g., cloud computing) or acquired through partnership.

Exclude: advanced technologies of suppliers and those not located inside your enterprise (e.g., contracted-out activities), except technologies used as a service (e.g., cloud computing).

Note: For additional definition(s) or explanation(s) refer to the Help button.

Capital expenditures

What are capital expenditures?
Capital expenditures are the gross expenditures on fixed assets used in your organization's operations, or for lease or rent to others.

Include:
- cost of all new buildings, engineering, machinery and equipment which usually last more than one year and are charged to fixed asset accounts;
- modifications, acquisitions and major renovations;
- capital costs such as feasibility studies, architectural, legal, installation and engineering fees;
- subsidies;
- capitalized interest charges on loans that finance capital projects;
- work completed by own labour force;
- acquisitions to work in progress.

How to treat leases:

Include:
- assets acquired as a lessee through either a capital or financial lease;
- assets acquired for lease to others as an operating lease.

Exclude: assets acquired for lease to others, either as a capital or financial lease.

List of Advanced Material Handling, Supply Chain and Logistic Technologies:

a. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software
b. Software for demand forecasting or demand planning.
c. Transportation Management System
d. Warehouse Management System (WMS)
e. Supply chain collaboration and visibility systems
f. Automated Storage (AS) and Retrieval System (RS)
g. Part identification for automation (e.g., bar or QR coding)
h. Radio frequency identification (RFID)

• ( ): Yes
• ( ): No

Advanced Business Intelligence Technologies: Use of advanced technologies - Question identifier:8.

Does your enterprise use or plan to use any of the following Advanced Business Intelligence Technologies?

Include: advanced technologies that are owned, leased or licensed, used as a service (e.g., cloud computing) or acquired through partnership.

Exclude: advanced technologies of suppliers and those not located inside your enterprise (e.g., contracted-out activities), except technologies used as a service (e.g., cloud computing).

Note: For additional definition(s) or explanation(s) refer to the Help button.

a. Executive dashboards for analytics or decision-making
b. Software for large-scale data processing (e.g., Hadoop)
c. Live stream processing technology or real-time monitoring
d. Software as a service (AaaS) (e.g., cloud computing - software)
e. Infrastructure as a service (IaaS) (e.g., cloud computing - hardware)

Help definitions

Enterprise is defined on the 'Business and Contact Information' screen - your survey answers should reflect the operations of the enterprise based on this definition.

Technology includes the technical means and know-how required to produce a product or service. It takes the form of equipment, materials, processes, blueprints and knowledge.

Advanced technology is new technology that performs a new function or improves some function significantly better than other commonly used technology. For the purposes of this survey, the technology that is considered to be advanced is found in Questions 1, 8, 15, 16 and 23.

Advanced Business Intelligence Technologies

a. Executive dashboards for analytics or decision-making: A visually-based solution designed to provide managers with information to enable them to make appropriate decisions based on complex data.

b. Software for large-scale data processing (e.g., Hadoop): A software framework used for storage and processing of large, often unstructured, datasets.

c. Live stream processing technology or real-time monitoring: Technology that enables the collection, integration, analysis and system integration of data in real time, as the data are being produced.

d. Software as a service (AaaS) (e.g., cloud computing - software): A delivery model in which both the software and the associated data are hosted centrally on the cloud. E.g., a corporate email system or Customer Relationship Manager.

e. Infrastructure as a service (IaaS) (e.g., cloud computing - hardware): Virtual computing machines used for infrastructure scaling that can be accessed on demand.

• ( ): No plan to use or not applicable
• ( ): Plan to use within two years
• ( ): Have used for three years or less
• ( ): Have used for more than three years

Advanced Business Intelligence Technologies: Objectives of adoption - Question identifier:9.

Indicate the extent to which your enterprise has achieved the following objectives by adopting Advanced Business Intelligence Technologies.

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

a. Improve the production process
b. Develop new products
c. Improve the quality of products
d. Product differentiation
e. Improve market share
f. Lower environmental impact
g. Improve organizational flexibility
h. Meet requirements of supply-chain partners
i. Lower operating expenses
j. Meet regulatory standards

List of Advanced Business Intelligence Technologies:

a. Executive dashboards for analytics or decision-making
b. Software for large-scale data processing (e.g., Hadoop)
c. Live stream processing technology or real-time monitoring
d. Software as a service (AaaS) (e.g., cloud computing - software)
e. Infrastructure as a service (IaaS) (e.g., cloud computing - hardware)

• ( ): Objective not met
• ( ): Objective met
• ( ): Objective exceeded
• ( ): Not applicable

Advanced Business Intelligence Technologies: Objectives of adoption - Question identifier:10.

Has your enterprise achieved other objective(s) by adopting Advanced Business Intelligence Technologies?

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

List of Advanced Business Intelligence Technologies:

a. Executive dashboards for analytics or decision-making
b. Software for large-scale data processing (e.g., Hadoop)
c. Live stream processing technology or real-time monitoring
d. Software as a service (AaaS) (e.g., cloud computing - software)
e. Infrastructure as a service (IaaS) (e.g., cloud computing - hardware)

• ( ): Yes, list of other objective(s) achieved
• ( ): No

Advanced Business Intelligence Technologies: Objectives of adoption - Question identifier:11.

For the other objective(s) that you have indicated, to what extent has your enterprise achieved them?

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

List of Advanced Business Intelligence Technologies:

a. Executive dashboards for analytics or decision-making
b. Software for large-scale data processing (e.g., Hadoop)
c. Live stream processing technology or real-time monitoring
d. Software as a service (AaaS) (e.g., cloud computing - software)
e. Infrastructure as a service (IaaS) (e.g., cloud computing - hardware)

• ( ): Objective met
• ( ): Objective exceeded

Advanced Business Intelligence Technologies: Obstacles of adoption - Question identifier:12.

Please check the major obstacle(s) encountered by your enterprise when adopting Advanced Business Intelligence Technologies.

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

Select all that apply.

List of Advanced Business Intelligence Technologies:

a. Executive dashboards for analytics or decision-making
b. Software for large-scale data processing (e.g., Hadoop)
c. Live stream processing technology or real-time monitoring
d. Software as a service (AaaS) (e.g., cloud computing - software)
e. Infrastructure as a service (IaaS) (e.g., cloud computing - hardware)

• [ ]: Lack of employee training
• [ ]: Employees' resistance to change
• [ ]: Difficulty in recruiting qualified staff
• [ ]: Low return on investment or long payback period
• [ ]: Difficulty in accessing funding (e.g., bank, private companies)
• [ ]: Difficulty in accessing financial or non-financial support from the federal government
• [ ]: Difficulty in accessing financial or non-financial support from the provincial government
• [ ]: Organizational rigidity of the enterprise
• [ ]: Difficulty in integrating new advanced technologies with existing systems, standards and processes
• [ ]: Decisions made elsewhere in the organization and not in the enterprise itself
• [ ]: Lack of technical support or services (from consultants or vendors)
• [ ]: Other obstacle - specify:
• OR [ ]: No obstacle was encountered

Advanced Business Intelligence Technologies: Obstacles of adoption - Question identifier:13.

Which measures did your enterprise take to reduce obstacle(s) to the adoption of Advanced Business Intelligence Technologies?

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

Select all that apply.

List of Advanced Business Intelligence Technologies:

a. Executive dashboards for analytics or decision-making
b. Software for large-scale data processing (e.g., Hadoop)
c. Live stream processing technology or real-time monitoring
d. Software as a service (AaaS) (e.g., cloud computing - software)
e. Infrastructure as a service (IaaS) (e.g., cloud computing - hardware)

• [ ]: Performance bonuses
• [ ]: Improved working conditions (e.g., flexible hours, health and safety)
• [ ]: College and university recruitment
• [ ]: Offer training as needed for the needs of the organization
• [ ]: Calling in consultants or subcontracting for short-term needs
• [ ]: Collaborating with universities or research centres to develop advanced technologies
• [ ]: Collaborating with other enterprise(s) or client(s)
• [ ]: Acquiring another enterprise that had already developed the required advanced technology
• [ ]: Seeking government support (e.g., technical, financial)
• [ ]: Seeking support from professional organizations
• [ ]: Other measure - specify:
• OR [ ]: No measures were taken

Advanced Business Intelligence Technologies: Capital expenditures - Question identifier:14.

Between the years 2012 and 2014, did your enterprise make capital expenditures in Advanced Business Intelligence Technologies?

Include: advanced technologies that are owned, leased or licensed, used as a service (e.g., cloud computing) or acquired through partnership.

Exclude: advanced technologies of suppliers and those not located inside your enterprise (e.g., contracted-out activities), except technologies used as a service (e.g., cloud computing).

Note: For additional definition(s) or explanation(s) refer to the Help button.

Capital expenditures

What are capital expenditures?
Capital expenditures are the gross expenditures on fixed assets used in your organization's operations, or for lease or rent to others.

Include:
- cost of all new buildings, engineering, machinery and equipment which usually last more than one year and are charged to fixed asset accounts;
- modifications, acquisitions and major renovations;
- capital costs such as feasibility studies, architectural, legal, installation and engineering fees;
- subsidies;
- capitalized interest charges on loans that finance capital projects;
- work completed by own labour force;
- acquisitions to work in progress.

How to treat leases:

Include:
- assets acquired as a lessee through either a capital or financial lease;
- assets acquired for lease to others as an operating lease.

Exclude: assets acquired for lease to others, either as a capital or financial lease.

List of Advanced Business Intelligence Technologies:

a. Executive dashboards for analytics or decision-making
b. Software for large-scale data processing (e.g., Hadoop)
c. Live stream processing technology or real-time monitoring
d. Software as a service (AaaS) (e.g., cloud computing - software)
e. Infrastructure as a service (IaaS) (e.g., cloud computing - hardware)

• ( ): Yes
• ( ): No

Advanced Design and Information Control Technologies: Use of advanced technologies - Question identifier:15.

Does your enterprise use or plan to use any of the following Advanced Design and Information Control Technologies?

Include: advanced technologies that are owned, leased or licensed, used as a service (e.g., cloud computing) or acquired through partnership.

Exclude: advanced technologies of suppliers and those not located inside your enterprise (e.g., contracted-out activities), except technologies used as a service (e.g., cloud computing).

Note: For additional definition(s) or explanation(s) refer to the Help button.

a. Virtual Product Development or modelling software including Computer Aided Design (CAD), Computer Aided Engineering (CAE), Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM)
b. Virtual manufacturing
c. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
d. Manufacturing Execution System (MES)
e. Software integration of quality results with planning and control softwares
f. Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP II)
g. Inter-company computer networks including Extranet and electronic data interchange (EDI)
h. Wireless communications for production
i. Sensor network and integration
j. Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM)
k. Automated systems for inspection (e.g., vision-based, laser-based, X-ray, high-definition (HD) camera or sensor-based)
l. Unmanned aerial system (e.g., drone)

Help definitions

Enterprise is defined on the 'Business and Contact Information' screen - your survey answers should reflect the operations of the enterprise based on this definition.

Technology includes the technical means and know-how required to produce a product or service. It takes the form of equipment, materials, processes, blueprints and knowledge.

Advanced technology is new technology that performs a new function or improves some function significantly better than other commonly used technology. For the purposes of this survey, the technology that is considered to be advanced is found in Questions 1, 8, 15, 16 and 23.

Advanced Design and Information Control Technologies

a. Virtual product development or modelling software including Computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided engineering (CAE), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM): Virtual product development refers to the use of simulation software or services to develop products. Modelling or simulation technologies are used to provide a computer-based visualization of a computer-aided design's performance. Examples include the simulation of the flow of molten plastic into an injection mould, the tool path for the cutter of a numerically controlled machine tool, and the trajectories of robots, machine tools and materials handling equipment in a flexible manufacturing system.
Computer-aided design (CAD) is the use of computer-based software to carry out design. CAD allows engineers, architects, surveyors or designers to produce complete designs on the computer screen and to visualize the implications of design changes on other aspects of the design. CAD may be used with computer-aided engineering (CAE) software so that the designer can carry out specific engineering calculations on the part or product design such as a heat flow, strength, formability, or electronic performance. CAD may be used with coordinate geometry (COGO) software, so that the designer can carry out specific survey calculations on the boundary or design, such as coordinates, bearing, distance or area values. CAD may also be used with computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software so that the output from the computer-aided design is used to control the machines manufacturing the parts or products.

• ( ): No plan to use or not applicable
• ( ): Plan to use within two years
• ( ): Have used for three years or less
• ( ): Have used for more than three years

Context Help Text Continued (Part 1 of 2)

b. Virtual manufacturing is a virtual reality-based engineering application that provides a modelling and simulation environment to mimic actual manufacturing systems using computers. It includes a graphical user interface to select and input all necessary variables, parameters and process-control information. Process models are used to simulate changes in materials as they are shaped into products with graphical multimedia procedures used for indicating the results. The simulation can include machining, human-machine interaction, assembly, shop floor product transfer system, etc.

c. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) management information systems integrate and automate many of the business practices associated with a business unit's operations or production activities, including manufacturing, logistics, distribution, inventory, shipping, invoicing and accounting. ERP software can be used to manage business activities such as sales, delivery, billing, production inventory management and human resource management systems.

d. Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) are computerized systems used in manufacturing. MES can provide the right information at the right time and show the manufacturing decision maker 'how the current conditions on the plant floor can be optimized to improve production output.' MES work in real time to enable controlling multiple elements of the production process (e.g., inputs, personnel, machines and support services).

e. Software integration of quality results with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) or Manufacturing Execution System (MES): ERP management information systems integrate and automate many of the business practices associated with the operations or production activities of a business including manufacturing, logistics, distribution, inventory, shipping, invoicing and accounting.

f. Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP II) is computer software that helps manages the manufacturing process. Its purpose is to reduce in-process inventory.

g. Inter-company computer networks including extranet and electronic data interchange (EDI) are wide-area networks that connect establishments with their subcontractors, suppliers and customers. Extranets are intranets that business units have opened to selected business partners. Suppliers, subcontractors, customers, distributors and other authorized users can connect to the business unit's network over the Internet or through virtual private networks. Through this access, they can share information, track shipments, process orders and make payments.

Context Help Text Continued (Part 2 of 2)

h. Wireless communications for production is the use of wireless devices for producing and assembling products or processes.

i. Sensor network and integration: From the perspective of manufacturing control, sensors measure the machine information to reflect the prevailing status of the equipment and influence the control decision for networked systems. The supervisory controllers can take proactive measures to ensure the continual operation by executing the fall back strategies. For example, wireless integrated network sensors (WINS) provide distributed network and Internet access to sensors, controls, and processors that are deeply embedded in equipment, facilities, and the environment. The WINS network is a new monitoring and control capability for applications in transportation, health care, environmental monitoring, and safety and security.

j. Computer-integrated manufacturing (CIM) refers to completely automated production, in which a central computer controls and integrates all manufacturing processes are integrated.

k. Automated systems for inspection (e.g., vision-based, laser-based, X-ray, high-definition (HD) camera or sensor-based) incorporate a video camera, interface electronics and a computer or controller. The systems are programmed to identify specific manufacturing parameters such as product colour, part orientation, missing parts, and defects or blemishes. The results of the inspection/testing may be used for monitoring or controlling the production process - this includes embedded sensors.

l. Unmanned aerial system: Is a system comprising an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) or remote piloted aircraft (RPA), aircraft control station, ground support, launch and recovery system, transport system, and communication system. The aircraft may be piloted remotely or rely on a preprogrammed flight plan.
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), commonly known as a drone, is an aircraft without a human pilot aboard. Its flight is controlled either autonomously by onboard computers or by the remote control of a pilot on the ground or in another vehicle.

Advanced Processing and Fabrication Technologies: Use of advanced technologies - Question identifier:16.

Does your enterprise use or plan to use any of the following Advanced Processing and Fabrication Technologies?

Include: advanced technologies that are owned, leased or licensed, used as a service (e.g., cloud computing) or acquired through partnership.

Exclude: advanced technologies of suppliers and those not located inside your enterprise (e.g., contracted-out activities), except technologies used as a service (e.g., cloud computing).

Note: For additional definition(s) or explanation(s) refer to the Help button.

a. Flexible Manufacturing Cells (FMC) or Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS)
b. Lasers used in materials processing (including surface modification)
c. Robot(s) with sensing or vision systems
d. Robot(s) without sensing or vision systems
e. 4-9 axis computer numerically controlled (CNC) machinery
f. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for plastics and 3D printing for plastics
g. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for metals and 3D printing for metals
h. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for materials other than plastics and metals, and 3D printing other than plastics and metals
i. Automated machinery for sorting, transporting or assembling parts
j. Plasma sputtering
k. Micro-manufacturing (e.g., micro-machining or micro-moulding)
l. Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS)

Help definitions

Enterprise is defined on the 'Business and Contact Information' screen - your survey answers should reflect the operations of the enterprise based on this definition.

Technology includes the technical means and know-how required to produce a product or service. It takes the form of equipment, materials, processes, blueprints and knowledge.

Advanced technology is new technology that performs a new function or improves some function significantly better than other commonly used technology. For the purposes of this survey, the technology that is considered to be advanced is found in Questions 1, 8, 15, 16 and 23.

Advanced Processing and Fabrication Technologies

a. Flexible Manufacturing Cells (FMC) or Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS) refers to single or multiple machines with fully integrated materials handling capabilities controlled by computers or programmable controllers; capable of single or multiple-path acceptance of raw material and single or multiple-path delivery of finished product.

b. Lasers used in materials processing (including surface modification) refers to the use of lasers to scribe, mark, cut, weld, and cure or otherwise alter the properties of a material. These lasers may also be used in surface modification to selectively alter the surface metallurgy or properties of the material, deposit other materials or coating, or assist in other surface modification.

• ( ): No plan to use or not applicable
• ( ): Plan to use within two years
• ( ): Have used for three years or less
• ( ): Have used for more than three years

Context Help Text Continued (Part 1 of 2)

c. Robot(s) with sensing or vision systems are programmed to alter their function based on input from sensors, e.g., to identify and pick up specific parts, to follow a track, to avoid obstacles. Robots are re-programmable, multi-functional manipulators designed to move materials, parts, tools or specialized devices through variable programmed motions for the performance of a variety of tasks.

d. Robot(s) without sensing or vision systems are programmed to undertake simple tasks, e.g., pick and place objects. Pick and place robots are typically two or three degrees of freedom robots performing simple repetitive tasks of moving an item from place to place in a point-to-point movement. Robots are re-programmable, multifunctional manipulators designed to move materials, parts, tools or specialized devices through variable programmed motions for the performance of a variety of tasks.

e. 4-9 axis computer numerically controlled (CNC) machinery is a machine tool (milling machine, lathe, cutting table, etc.) that includes a controller to calculate positions or trajectories. It enables precision components to be completed without refixturing, ensuring maximum accuracy.

f. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for plastics and 3D printing for plastics: Additive manufacturing is a process of making a three-dimensional solid object of virtually any shape from a digital model. 3D printing is achieved using an additive process, where successive layers of material are laid down in different shapes. Rapid prototyping is a group of techniques used to quickly fabricate a scale model of a physical part or assembly using three-dimensional computer aided design (CAD) data. Construction of the part or assembly is usually done using 3D printing or additive layer manufacturing technology.

g. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for metals and 3D printing for metals: Additive manufacturing is a process of making a three-dimensional solid object of virtually any shape from a digital model. 3D printing is done using an additive process, where successive layers of material are laid down in different shapes. Rapid prototyping is a group of techniques used to quickly fabricate a scale model of a physical part or assembly using three-dimensional computer-aided design (CAD) data. Construction of the part or assembly is usually done using 3D printing or additive layer manufacturing technology.

Context Help Text Continued (Part 2 of 2)

h. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for materials other than plastics and metals and 3D printing other than plastics and metals: Additive manufacturing is the process of making a three-dimensional solid object of virtually any shape from a digital model. 3D printing is achieved using an additive process, where successive layers of material are laid down in different shapes. Rapid prototyping is a group of techniques used to quickly fabricate a scale model of a physical part or assembly using three-dimensional computer-aided design (CAD) data. Construction of the part or assembly is usually done using 3D printing or additive layer manufacturing technology.

i. Automated machinery for sorting, transporting or assembling parts: A type of machinery used to assemble, sort or transport parts. The majority of the tasks are controlled by computer. This machinery can be used independent of the production line, or it can be integrated within a fully automated plant.

j. Plasma sputtering is a process often used for laying down nanosurface treatments/coatings. This process involves using a device that sprays or overlays plasma onto a surface within a defined outline. For example the use of thin-film deposition.

k. Micro-manufacturing (e.g., micro-machining or micro-moulding): Micro-manufacturing is the process used to manufacture miniature structures of micrometer scales and smaller. This reflects the increased interest from manufacturers in producing and procuring high-precision, micro-featured parts. Micro-molding must be capable of producing thousands, millions, even billions of parts with the same precision.

l. Micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS): Micro-machines typically made using micro-electronic technology including micronanosytems. For example, air bag sensors, image-processing devices for projectors and microfluidic devices.

Advanced Design and Information Control and Advanced Processing and Fabrication Technologies: Objectives of adoption - Question identifier:17.

Indicate the extent to which your enterprise has achieved the following objectives by adopting Advanced Design and Information Control and Advanced Processing and Fabrication Technologies.

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

a. Improve the production process
b. Develop new products
c. Improve the quality of products
d. Product differentiation
e. Improve market share
f. Lower environmental impact
g. Improve organizational flexibility
h. Meet requirements of supply-chain partners
i. Lower operating expenses
j. Meet regulatory standards

List of Advanced Design and Information Control Technologies:

a. Virtual product development or modelling software including Computer-aided design (CAD), Computer Aided Engineering (CAE), Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM)
b. Virtual manufacturing
c. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
d. Manufacturing Execution System (MES)
e. Software integration of quality results with planning and control softwares
f. Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP II)
g. Inter-company computer networks including extranet and electronic data interchange (EDI)
h. Wireless communications for production
i. Sensor network and integration
j. Computer-integrated manufacturing (CIM)
k. Automated systems for inspection (e.g., vision-based, laser-based, X-ray, high-definition HD camera or sensor-based)
l. Unmanned aerial system (e.g., drone)

List of Advanced Processing and Fabrication Technologies:

a. Flexible Manufacturing Cells (FMC) or Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS)
b. Lasers used in materials processing (including surface modification)
c. Robot(s) with sensing or vision systems
d. Robot(s) without sensing or vision systems
e. 4-9 axis computer numerically controlled (CNC) machinery
f. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for plastics and 3D printing for plastics
g. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for metals and 3D printing for metals
h. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for materials other than plastics and metals and 3D printing other than plastics and metals
i. Automated machinery for sorting, transporting or assembling parts
j. Plasma sputtering
k. Micro-manufacturing (e.g., micro-machining or micro-moulding)
l. Micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS)

• ( ): Objective not met
• ( ): Objective met
• ( ): Objective exceeded
• ( ): Not applicable

Advanced Design and Information Control and Advanced Processing and Fabrication Technologies: Objectives of adoption - Question identifier:18.

Has your enterprise achieved other objective(s) by adopting Advanced Design and Information Control Technologies and Advanced Processing and Fabrication Technologies?

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

List of Advanced Design and Information Control Technologies:

a. Virtual product development or modelling software including Computer-aided design (CAD), Computer Aided Engineering (CAE), Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM)
b. Virtual manufacturing
c. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
d. Manufacturing Execution System (MES)
e. Software integration of quality results with planning and control softwares.
f. Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP II)
g. Inter-company computer networks including extranet and electronic data interchange (EDI)
h. Wireless communications for production
i. Sensor network and integration
j. Computer-integrated manufacturing (CIM)
k. Automated systems for inspection (e.g., vision-based, laser-based, X-ray, high-definition HD camera or sensor-based)
l. Unmanned aerial system (e.g., drone)

List of Advanced Processing and Fabrication Technologies:

a. Flexible Manufacturing Cells (FMC) or Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS)
b. Lasers used in materials processing (including surface modification)
c. Robot(s) with sensing or vision systems
d. Robot(s) without sensing or vision systems
e. 4-9 axis computer numerically controlled (CNC) machinery
f. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for plastics and 3D printing for plastics
g. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for metals and 3D printing for metals
h. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for materials other than plastics and metals and 3D printing other than plastics and metals
i. Automated machinery for sorting, transporting or assembling parts
j. Plasma sputtering
k. Micro-manufacturing (e.g., micro-machining or micro-moulding)
l. Micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS)

• ( ): Yes, list of other objective(s) achieved
• ( ): No

Advanced Design and Information Control and Advanced Processing and Fabrication Technologies: Objectives of adoption - Question identifier:19.

For the other objective(s) that you have indicated, to what extent has your enterprise achieved them?

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

List of Advanced Design and Information Control Technologies:

a. Virtual product development or modelling software including Computer-aided design (CAD), Computer Aided Engineering (CAE), Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) .
b. Virtual manufacturing
c. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
d. Manufacturing Execution System (MES)
e. Software integration of quality results with planning and control softwares
f. Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP II)
g. Inter-company computer networks including extranet and electronic data interchange (EDI)
h. Wireless communications for production
i. Sensor network and integration
j. Computer-integrated manufacturing (CIM)
k. Automated systems for inspection (e.g., vision-based, laser-based, X-ray, high-definition HD camera or sensor-based)
l. Unmanned aerial system (e.g., drone)

List of Advanced Processing and Fabrication Technologies:

a. Flexible Manufacturing Cells (FMC) or Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS)
b. Lasers used in materials processing (including surface modification)
c. Robot(s) with sensing or vision systems
d. Robot(s) without sensing or vision systems
e. 4-9 axis computer numerically controlled (CNC) machinery
f. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for plastics and 3D printing for plastics
g. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for metals and 3D printing for metals
h. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for materials other than plastics and metals and 3D printing other than plastics and metals
i. Automated machinery for sorting, transporting or assembling parts
j. Plasma sputtering
k. Micro-manufacturing (e.g., micro-machining or micro-moulding)
l. Micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS)

• ( ): Objective met
• ( ): Objective exceeded

Advanced Design and Information Control and Advanced Processing and Fabrication Technologies: Obstacles of adoption - Question identifier:20.

Please check the major obstacle(s) encountered by your enterprise when adopting Advanced Design and Information Control and Advanced Processing and Fabrication Technologies.

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

Select all that apply.

List of Advanced Design and Information Control Technologies:

a. Virtual product development or modelling software including Computer-aided design (CAD), Computer Aided Engineering (CAE), Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM)
b. Virtual manufacturing
c. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
d. Manufacturing Execution System (MES)
e. Software integration of quality results with planning and control softwares
f. Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP II)
g. Inter-company computer networks including extranet and electronic data interchange (EDI)
h. Wireless communications for production
i. Sensor network and integration
j. Computer-integrated manufacturing (CIM)
k. Automated systems for inspection (e.g., vision-based, laser-based, X-ray, high-definition HD camera or sensor-based)
l. Unmanned aerial system (e.g., drone)

List of Advanced Processing and Fabrication Technologies:

a. Flexible Manufacturing Cells (FMC) or Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS)
b. Lasers used in materials processing (including surface modification)
c. Robot(s) with sensing or vision systems
d. Robot(s) without sensing or vision systems
e. 4-9 axis computer numerically controlled (CNC) machinery
f. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for plastics and 3D printing for plastics
g. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for metals and 3D printing for metals
h. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for materials other than plastics and metals and 3D printing other than plastics and metals
i. Automated machinery for sorting, transporting or assembling parts
j. Plasma sputtering
k. Micro-manufacturing (e.g., micro-machining or micro-moulding)
l. Micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS)

• [ ]: Lack of employee training
• [ ]: Employees' resistance to change
• [ ]: Difficulty in recruiting qualified staff
• [ ]: Low return on investment or long payback period
• [ ]: Difficulty in accessing funding (e.g., bank, private companies)
• [ ]: Difficulty in accessing financial or non-financial support from the federal government
• [ ]: Difficulty in accessing financial or non-financial support from the provincial government
• [ ]: Organizational rigidity of the enterprise
• [ ]: Difficulty in integrating new advanced technologies with existing systems, standards and processes
• [ ]: Decisions made elsewhere in the organization and not in the enterprise itself
• [ ]: Lack of technical support or services (from consultants or vendors)
• [ ]: Other obstacle - specify:
• OR [ ]: No obstacle was encountered

Advanced Design and Information Control and Advanced Processing and Fabrication Technologies: Obstacles of adoption - Question identifier:21.

Which measures did your enterprise take to reduce obstacle(s) to the adoption of Advanced Design and Information Control and Advanced Processing and Fabrication Technologies?

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

Select all that apply.

List of Advanced Design and Information Control Technologies:

a. Virtual product development or modelling software including Computer-aided design (CAD), Computer Aided Engineering (CAE), Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM)
b. Virtual manufacturing
c. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
d. Manufacturing Execution System (MES)
e. Software integration of quality results with planning and control softwares
f. Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP II)
g. Inter-company computer networks including extranet and electronic data interchange (EDI)
h. Wireless communications for production
i. Sensor network and integration
j. Computer-integrated manufacturing (CIM)
k. Automated systems for inspection (e.g., vision-based, laser-based, X-ray, high-definition HD camera or sensor-based)
l. Unmanned aerial system (e.g., drone)

List of Advanced Processing and Fabrication Technologies:

a. Flexible Manufacturing Cells (FMC) or Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS)
b. Lasers used in materials processing (including surface modification)
c. Robot(s) with sensing or vision systems
d. Robot(s) without sensing or vision systems
e. 4-9 axis computer numerically controlled (CNC) machinery
f. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for plastics and 3D printing for plastics
g. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for metals and 3D printing for metals
h. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for materials other than plastics and metals and 3D printing other than plastics and metals
i. Automated machinery for sorting, transporting or assembling parts
j. Plasma sputtering
k. Micro-manufacturing (e.g., micro-machining or micro-moulding)
l. Micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS)

• [ ]: Performance bonuses
• [ ]: Improved working conditions (e.g., flexible hours, health and safety)
• [ ]: College and university recruitment
• [ ]: Offer training as needed for the needs of the organization
• [ ]: Calling in consultants or subcontracting for short-term needs
• [ ]: Collaborating with universities or research centres to develop advanced technologies
• [ ]: Collaborating with other enterprise(s) or client(s)
• [ ]: Acquiring another enterprise that had already developed the required advanced technology
• [ ]: Seeking government support (e.g., technical, financial)
• [ ]: Seeking support from professional organizations
• [ ]: Other measure - specify:
• OR [ ]: No measures were taken

Advanced Design and Information Control and Advanced Processing and Fabrication Technologies: Capital expenditures - Question identifier:22.

Between the years 2012 and 2014, did your enterprise make capital expenditures in Advanced Design and Information Control and Advanced Processing and Fabrication Technologies?

Include: advanced technologies that are owned, leased or licensed, used as a service (e.g., cloud computing) or acquired through partnership.

Exclude: advanced technologies of suppliers and those not located inside your enterprise (e.g., contracted-out activities), except technologies used as a service (e.g., cloud computing).

Note: For additional definition(s) or explanation(s) refer to the Help button.

Capital expenditures

What are capital expenditures?
Capital expenditures are the gross expenditures on fixed assets used in your organization's operations, or for lease or rent to others.

Include:
- cost of all new buildings, engineering, machinery and equipment which usually last more than one year and are charged to fixed asset accounts;
- modifications, acquisitions and major renovations;
- capital costs such as feasibility studies, architectural, legal, installation and engineering fees;
- subsidies;
- capitalized interest charges on loans that finance capital projects;
- work completed by own labour force;
- acquisitions to work in progress.

How to treat leases:

Include:
- Assets acquired as a lessee through either a capital or financial lease;
- Assets acquired for lease to others as an operating lease.

Exclude: assets acquired for lease to others, either as a capital or financial lease.

List of Advanced Design and Information Control Technologies:

a. Virtual product development or modelling software including Computer-aided design (CAD), Computer Aided Engineering (CAE), Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM)
b. Virtual manufacturing
c. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
d. Manufacturing Execution System (MES)
e. Software integration of quality results with planning and control softwares
f. Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP II)
g. Inter-company computer networks including extranet and electronic data interchange (EDI)
h. Wireless communications for production
i. Sensor network and integration
j. Computer-integrated manufacturing (CIM)
k. Automated systems for inspection (e.g., vision-based, laser-based, X-ray, high-definition HD camera or sensor-based)
l. Unmanned aerial system (e.g., drone)

List of Advanced Processing and Fabrication Technologies:

a. Flexible Manufacturing Cells (FMC) or Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS)
b. Lasers used in materials processing (including surface modification)
c. Robot(s) with sensing or vision systems
d. Robot(s) without sensing or vision systems
e. 4-9 axis computer numerically controlled (CNC) machinery
f. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for plastics and 3D printing for plastics
g. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for metals and 3D printing for metals
h. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for materials other than plastics and metals and 3D printing other than plastics and metals
i. Automated machinery for sorting, transporting or assembling parts
j. Plasma sputtering
k. Micro-manufacturing (e.g., micro-machining or micro-moulding)
l. Micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS)

• ( ): Yes, list of other objective(s) achieved
• ( ): No

Advanced Green Technologies: Use of advanced technologies - Question identifier:23.

Does your enterprise use or plan to use any of the following Advanced Green Technologies?

Include: advanced technologies that are owned, leased or licensed, used as a service (e.g., cloud computing) or acquired through partnership.

Exclude: advanced technologies of suppliers and those not located inside your enterprise (e.g., contracted-out activities), except technologies used as a service (e.g., cloud computing).

Note: For additional definition(s) or explanation(s) refer to the Help button.

a. Air or emission technologies
b. Energy technologies (e.g., ISO50000)
c. Water technologies
d. Waste technologies

Help definitions

Enterprise is defined on the 'Business and Contact Information' screen - your survey answers should reflect the operations of the enterprise based on this definition.

Technology includes the technical means and know-how required to produce a product or service. It takes the form of equipment, materials, processes, blueprints and knowledge.

Advanced technology is new technology that performs a new function or improves some function significantly better than other commonly used technology. For the purposes of this survey, the technology that is considered to be advanced is found in Questions 1, 8, 15, 16 and 23.

• ( ): No plan to use or not applicable
• ( ): Plan to use within two years
• ( ): Have used for three years or less
• ( ): Have used for more than three years

Context Help Text Continued (Part 1 of 1)

Advanced Green Technologies

a. Air or emission technologies: Air emissions release of pollutants into the atmosphere, many of which have global effects such as greenhouse gas emissions. The sources of air emissions range from industry, electric power generation, and transportation to agricultural production and individual households. A proper air/emission management system is set to reduce emissions with advanced technologies. These advanced technologies include combustion and control systems, emission control systems including scrubbers, baghouses, bioremediation, catalytic reduction, flue gas desulphurization, electrostatic precipitation, monitoring and compliance.

b. Energy technologies (e.g., ISO 50000): An energy conservation feature that uses computers, instrumentation, control equipment and software to manage a building's energy use for heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, lighting and for business-related processes - includes reference to ISO 50000 for energy management systems. These advanced technologies include advanced combustion for coal, oil and or natural gas, gasification, biomass utilization including co-firing, fuel cells, renewable energy including PV panels, solar hot water, wind energy, passive design, co-generation, waste-heat recovery, ground-source heat pumps, heat pumps, advanced HVAC, advanced lighting (LED systems, day lighting), advanced automotive technologies including hybrid and battery-electric vehicles, fuel cell vehicles, natural gas engines, diesel hybrids, energy storage, heat storage, smart-grid enabled appliances, loads, and or systems (for reducing peak power demand), LEED standard buildings, collaborative consumption systems and energy star rated appliances.

c. Water technologies: Water management involves planning, developing, distributing and managing the optimum use of water resources. Water management planning analyzes all the competing demands for water and seeks to allocate the water on an equitable basis, to satisfy all uses and demands (e.g., grey water utilization, water recycling, conservation and treatment).

d. Waste technologies: Waste is a material that is unwanted by its producer. The unwanted materials may be by-products of a production process - fly ash from a furnace, for example. Alternatively, they might be products with an inherent value that has been consumed from the perspective of the current holder. For example, a newspaper that has been read, a package that has been opened and emptied of its contents or an eaten apple are all similar, as they have lost their original inherent value from the consumer's perspective. Effective and efficient management of waste includes application of 3Rs (reduce, reuse, recycle), e.g., recycling, waste to energy, waste-reduction technologies, hazardous-waste management and solid-waste management.

Advanced Green Technologies: Objectives of adoption - Question identifier:24.

Indicate to what extent your enterprise has achieved the following objectives by adopting Advanced Green Technologies.

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

a. Improve the production process
b. Develop new products
c. Improve the quality of products
d. Product differentiation
e. Improve market share
f. Lower environmental impact
g. Improve organizational flexibility
h. Meet requirements of supply-chain partners
i. Lower operating expenses
j. Meet regulatory standards

List of Advanced Green Technologies:

a. Air or emission technologies
b. Energy technologies (e.g., ISO 50000)
c. Water technologies
d. Waste technologies

• ( ): Objective not met
• ( ): Objective met
• ( ): Objective exceeded
• ( ): Not applicable

Advanced Green Technologies: Objectives of adoption - Question identifier:25.

Has your enterprise achieved other objective(s) by adopting Advanced Green Technologies?

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

List of Advanced Green Technologies:

a. Air or emission technologies
b. Energy technologies (e.g., ISO 50000)
c. Water technologies
d. Waste technologies

• ( ): Yes, list of other objective(s) achieved
• ( ): No

Advanced Green Technologies: Objectives of adoption - Question identifier:26.

For the other objective(s) that you have indicated, to what extent has your enterprise achieved them?

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

List of Advanced Green Technologies:

a. Air or emission technologies
b. Energy technologies (e.g., ISO 50000)
c. Water technologies
d. Waste technologies

• ( ): Objective met
• ( ): Objective exceeded

Advanced Green Technologies: Obstacles of adoption - Question identifier:27.

Please check the major obstacle(s) encountered by your enterprise when adopting Advanced Green Technologies.

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

Select all that apply.

List of Advanced Green Technologies:

a. Air or emission technologies
b. Energy technologies (e.g., ISO 50000)
c. Water technologies
d. Waste technologies

• [ ]: Lack of employee training
• [ ]: Employees' resistance to change
• [ ]: Difficulty in recruiting qualified staff
• [ ]: Low return on investment or long payback period
• [ ]: Difficulty in accessing funding (e.g., bank, private companies)
• [ ]: Difficulty in accessing financial or non-financial support from the federal government
• [ ]: Difficulty in accessing financial or non-financial support from the provincial government
• [ ]: Organizational rigidity of the enterprise
• [ ]: Difficulty in integrating new advanced technologies with existing systems, standards and processes
• [ ]: Decisions made elsewhere in the organization and not in the enterprise itself
• [ ]: Lack of technical support or services (from consultants or vendors)
• [ ]: Other obstacle - specify:
• OR [ ]: No obstacle was encountered

Advanced Green Technologies: Obstacles of adoption - Question identifier:28.

Which measures did your enterprise take to reduce obstacle(s) to the adoption of Advanced Green Technologies?

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

Select all that apply.

List of Advanced Green Technologies:

a. Air or emission technologies
b. Energy technologies (e.g., ISO 50000)
c. Water technologies
d. Waste technologies

• [ ]: Performance bonuses
• [ ]: Improved working conditions (e.g., flexible hours, health and safety)
• [ ]: College and university recruitment
• [ ]: Offer training as needed for the needs of the organization
• [ ]: Calling in consultants or subcontracting for short-term needs
• [ ]: Collaborating with universities or research centres to develop advanced technologies
• [ ]: Collaborating with other enterprise(s) or client(s)
• [ ]: Acquiring another enterprise that had already developed the required advanced technology
• [ ]: Seeking government support (e.g., technical, financial)
• [ ]: Seeking support from professional organizations
• [ ]: Other measure - specify:
• OR [ ]: No measures were taken

Advanced Green Technologies: Capital expenditures - Question identifier:29.

Between the years 2012 and 2014, did your enterprise make capital expenditures in Advanced Green Technologies?

Include: advanced technologies that are owned, leased or licensed, used as a service (e.g., cloud computing) or acquired through partnership.

Exclude: advanced technologies of suppliers and those not located inside your enterprise (e.g., contracted-out activities), except technologies used as a service (e.g., cloud computing).

Note: For additional definition(s) or explanation(s) refer to the Help button.

Capital expenditures

What are capital expenditures?
Capital expenditures are the gross expenditures on fixed assets used in your organization's operations, or for the lease or rent to others.

Include:
- cost of all new buildings, engineering, machinery and equipment which usually last more than one year and are charged to fixed asset accounts;
- modifications, acquisitions and major renovations;
- capital costs such as feasibility studies, architectural, legal, installation and engineering fees;
- subsidies;
- capitalized interest charges on loans that finance capital projects;
- work completed by own labour force;
- acquisitions to work in progress.

How to treat leases:

Include:
- assets acquired as a lessee through either a capital or financial lease;
- assets acquired for lease to others as an operating lease.

Exclude: assets acquired for lease to others, either as a capital or financial lease.

List of Advanced Green Technologies:

a. Air or emission technologies
b. Energy technologies (e.g., ISO 50000)
c. Water technologies
d. Waste technologies

• ( ): Yes
• ( ): No

Expenditures in advanced technologies - Question identifier:30.

Between the years 2012 and 2014, how much did your enterprise invest in capital expenditures for all its advanced technologies?

Notes:
- When precise figures are not available, please provide your best estimate.
- For additional definitions or the list of included technologies refer to the Help button.

Capital expenditures

What are capital expenditures?
Capital expenditures are the gross expenditures on fixed assets used in your organization's operations, or for the lease or rent to others.

Include:
- cost of all new buildings, engineering, machinery and equipment which usually last more than one year and are charged to fixed asset accounts;
- modifications, acquisitions and major renovations;
- capital costs such as feasibility studies, architectural, legal, installation and engineering fees;
- subsidies;
- capitalized interest charges on loans that finance capital projects;
- work completed by own labour force;
- acquisitions to work in progress.

How to treat leases:

Include:
- assets acquired as a lessee through either a capital or financial lease;
- assets acquired for lease to others as an operating lease.

Exclude: assets acquired for lease to others, either as a capital or financial lease.

Context Help Text Continued (Part 1 of 1)

List of Advanced Material Handling, Supply Chain and Logistic Technologies:

a. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software
b. Software for demand forecasting or demand planning
c. Transportation Management System
d. Warehouse Management System (WMS)
e. Supply chain collaboration and visibility systems
f. Automated Storage (AS) and Retrieval System (RS)
g. Part identification for automation (e.g., bar or QR coding)
h. Radio frequency identification (RFID)

List of Advanced Business Intelligence Technologies:

a. Executive dashboards for analytics or decision-making
b. Software for large-scale data processing (e.g., Hadoop)
c. Live stream processing technology or real-time monitoring
d. Software as a service (AaaS) (e.g., cloud computing - software )
e. Infrastructure as a service (IaaS) (e.g., cloud computing - hardware)

List of Advanced Design and Information Control Technologies:

a. Virtual product development or modelling software including Computer-aided design (CAD), Computer Aided Engineering (CAE), Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM)
b. Virtual manufacturing
c. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
d. Manufacturing Execution System (MES)
e. Software integration of quality results with planning and control softwares
f. Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP II)
g. Inter-company computer networks including extranet and electronic data interchange (EDI)
h. Wireless communications for production.
i. Sensor network and integration
j. Computer-integrated manufacturing (CIM)
k. Automated systems for inspection (e.g., vision-based, laser-based, X-ray, high-definition HD camera or sensor-based)
l. Unmanned aerial system (e.g., drone)

List of Advanced Processing and Fabrication Technologies:

a. Flexible Manufacturing Cells (FMC) or Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS)
b. Lasers used in materials processing (including surface modification)
c. Robot(s) with sensing or vision systems
d. Robot(s) without sensing or vision systems
e. 4-9 axis computer numerically controlled (CNC) machinery
f. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for plastics and 3D printing for plastics
g. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for metals and 3D printing for metals
h. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for materials other than plastics and metals and 3D printing other than plastics and metals
i. Automated machinery for sorting, transporting or assembling parts
j. Plasma sputtering
k. Micro-manufacturing (e.g., micro-machining or micro-moulding)
l. Micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS)

List of Advanced Green Technologies:

a. Air or emission technologies
b. Energy technologies (e.g., ISO 50000)
c. Water technologies
d. Waste technologies

Expenditures in advanced technologies - Question identifier:31.

Please provide a percentage breakdown of your capital expenditures in advanced technologies by technology groups between the years 2012 and 2014.

Notes:
- When precise figures are not available, please provide your best estimate.
- For additional definitions or the list of included technologies refer to the Help button.

Capital expenditures

What are capital expenditures?
Capital expenditures are the gross expenditures on fixed assets used in your organization's operations, or for the lease or rent to others.

Include:
- cost of all new buildings, engineering, machinery and equipment which usually last more than one year and are charged to fixed asset accounts;
- modifications, acquisitions and major renovations;
- capital costs such as feasibility studies, architectural, legal, installation and engineering fees;
- subsidies;
- capitalized interest charges on loans that finance capital projects;
- work completed by own labour force;
- acquisitions to work in progress.

How to treat leases:

Include:
- assets acquired as a lessee through either a capital or financial lease;
- assets acquired for lease to others as an operating lease.

Exclude: assets acquired for lease to others, either as a capital or financial lease.

• a: Advanced Material Handling, Supply Chain and Logistics Technologies
• b: Advanced Business Intelligence Technologies
• c: Advanced Design and Information Control Technologies and Advanced Processing and Fabrication Technologies
• d: Advanced Green Technologies
• : Total (Must be equal to 100%)

Context Help Text Continued (Part 1 of 1)

List of Advanced Material Handling, Supply Chain and Logistic Technologies:

a. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software
b. Software for demand forecasting or demand planning
c. Transportation Management System
d. Warehouse Management System (WMS)
e. Supply chain collaboration and visibility systems
f. Automated Storage (AS) and Retrieval System (RS)
g. Part identification for automation (e.g., bar or QR coding)
h. Radio frequency identification (RFID)

List of Advanced Business Intelligence Technologies:

a. Executive dashboards for analytics or decision-making
b. Software for large-scale data processing (e.g., Hadoop)
c. Live stream processing technology or real-time monitoring
d. Software as a service (AaaS) (e.g., cloud computing - software )
e. Infrastructure as a service (IaaS) (e.g., cloud computing - hardware)

List of Advanced Design and Information Control Technologies:

a. Virtual product development or modelling software including Computer-aided design (CAD), Computer Aided Engineering (CAE), Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM)
b. Virtual manufacturing
c. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
d. Manufacturing Execution System (MES)
e. Software integration of quality results with planning and control softwares
f. Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP II)
g. Inter-company computer networks including extranet and electronic data interchange (EDI)
h. Wireless communications for production.
i. Sensor network and integration
j. Computer-integrated manufacturing (CIM)
k. Automated systems for inspection (e.g., vision-based, laser-based, X-ray, high-definition HD camera or sensor-based)
l. Unmanned aerial system (e.g., drone)

List of Advanced Processing and Fabrication Technologies:

a. Flexible Manufacturing Cells (FMC) or Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS)
b. Lasers used in materials processing (including surface modification)
c. Robot(s) with sensing or vision systems
d. Robot(s) without sensing or vision systems
e. 4-9 axis computer numerically controlled (CNC) machinery
f. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for plastics and 3D printing for plastics
g. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for metals and 3D printing for metals
h. Additive manufacturing including rapid prototyping for materials other than plastics and metals and 3D printing other than plastics and metals
i. Automated machinery for sorting, transporting or assembling parts
j. Plasma sputtering
k. Micro-manufacturing (e.g., micro-machining or micro-moulding)
l. Micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS)

List of Advanced Green Technologies:

a. Air or emission technologies
b. Energy technologies (e.g., ISO 50000)
c. Water technologies
d. Waste technologies

Expenditures in advanced technologies - Question identifier:32.

Between the years 2012 and 2014, what were the sources of financing for all investments in advanced technologies?

Note: When precise figures are not available, please provide your best estimate.

• a: Internal sources
• b: Banking institutions
• c: Venture capital from private source
• d: Federal government
• e: Provincial government
• f: Collaboration agreements or joint purchases
• g: Issuing stock market shares
• h: Other
• : Total (Must be equal to 100%)

Skill requirements and training expenses tied to advanced technologies - Question identifier:33.

Between the years 2012 and 2014, have the employees of your enterprise received special or new training on the adoption of advanced technologies?

Include: in-house, off-site or contracted-out training.

Exclude: training not related to advanced technologies.

• ( ): Yes
• : Amount of spending specifically on training related to advanced technologies, in Canadian dollars
• ( ): No

Skill requirements and training expenses tied to advanced technologies - Question identifier:34.

Between the years 2012 and 2014, has your enterprise tried to recruit employees pertaining to the adoption of advanced technologies?

• ( ): Yes
• ( ): No

Development and implementation of advanced technologies - Question identifier:35.

How does your enterprise acquire or integrate advanced technologies (e.g., equipment or software)?

Select all that apply.

• [ ]: By sharing agreements
• [ ]: By purchasing off-the-shelf advanced technology (e.g., equipment or software)
• [ ]: By leasing off-the-shelf advanced technology (e.g., equipment or software)
• [ ]: By licensing advanced technology
• [ ]: By customizing or significantly modifying existing advanced technology
• [ ]: By developing new advanced technologies (either alone or in conjunction with others)
• [ ]: Through merger or acquisition of another enterprise with advanced technologies
• [ ]: By partnering with academic or research organizations
• [ ]: By partnering with the private sector
• [ ]: Other method - specify:

Non Investors - Question identifier:36.

Between the years 2012 and 2014, for which reason(s) did your enterprise not incur any capital expenditures in advanced technologies?

Select all that apply.

• [ ]: Not convinced of economic benefit
• [ ]: Difficulty in obtaining financing
• [ ]: High cost of advanced technologies
• [ ]: Investment not necessary for continuing operations
• [ ]: Lack of technical skills required to support this type of investment
• [ ]: Decisions made elsewhere in the organization and not in the enterprise itself
• [ ]: Use of technology-sharing agreements or contracting for our advanced technology needs
• [ ]: Lack of information regarding advanced technology
• [ ]: Capital expenditures made more than three years ago
• [ ]: Other reason - specify:
• OR [ ]: Not applicable to the enterprise's activities

Emerging technologies: Geomatics or Geospatial - Question identifier:37.

Does your enterprise use or plan to use any of the following Geomatics or Geospatial technologies?

Note: For additional definitions or explanations refer to the Help button.

a. Geographic information systems (GIS)
b. Global positioning system (GPS) (exclude personal use)
c. Remote sensing (RS)
d. Mobile device with geolocation capabilities
e. Web or wireless sensors
f. Spatial data infrastructure

Help definitions

Enterprise is defined on the 'Business and Contact Information' screen - your survey answers should reflect the operations of the enterprise based on this definition.

Technology includes the technical means and know-how required to produce a product or service. It takes the form of equipment, materials, processes, blueprints and knowledge.

Emerging technologies: Geomatics or Geospatial

Geomatics is the science and technology of gathering, analyzing, interpreting, distributing and using geographic information. Geomatics encompasses a broad range of disciplines that can come together to create a detailed but comprehensible picture of the physical world and where each individual fits. The disciplines included surveying, mapping, remote sensing, geographic information systems, and global positioning systems.

Geospatial technologies refer to hardware and software systems that relate and display data of geographic, spatial or location nature. The technology helps to increase the speed of data interpretation and analysis for geomatics research.

a. Geographic information systems (GIS): GIS uses computer technology to integrate, manipulate and display a wide range of information, to create a visualization of an area's geography, environment, and socio-economic characteristics. Uses include basic mapping to support resource exploration and development, environmental management, planning, administration of transportation, telecommunication systems, utility infrastructures, urban development and land use. GIS technology provides users with a powerful tool that can archive, manipulate, integrate, analyze and visualize both the spatial and statistical characteristics of the volumes of data that are routinely collected. 3D GIS is a technology that is being increasingly used to display and analyze data containing horizontal and vertical spatial coordinates. 3D GIS' geoscientific applications include oil exploration, mining, meteorology, environmental monitoring, landscape architecture and geological modelling . CAD software is often used as a GIS to support parcel mapping and land-management datasets.

• ( ): No plan to use or not applicable
• ( ): Plan to use within two years
• ( ): Have used for three years or less
• ( ): Have used for more than three years

Context Help Text Continued (Part 1 of 1)

b. Global positioning system (GPS): GPS is a constellation of satellites providing geospatial information. GPS satellites beam signals to Earth, where they are picked up by receiving devices that range from hand-held units to more sophisticated vehicle-mounted and stationary equipment. The signals are used to determine the receiver's position on the ground at any time. GPS can be used to locate and track vehicles and other objects, to manage infrastructures, to time-tamp information and images, to navigate between points on the globe, as well as for environmental applications. Location-based technology applications are expected to continue to grow rapidly as more companies develop new products and services.

c. Remote sensing (RS): RS is the measurement or acquisition of information on an object or phenomenon, by a recording device that is not in physical or intimate contact with the object. In practice, RS is conducted by any device with the capacity to gather information about the environment from a distance (e.g., from an aircraft, spacecraft, satellite, or ship) .

d. Mobile device with geolocation capabilities: Small, handheld tablet computing devices and cellphones that are equipped with geospatial software applications and Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS and mapping capabilities.

e. Web or wireless sensors: A distributed network of sensor platforms or pods, communicating wirelessly, which collect and transmit data on the physical environment (e.g., temperature, air or water quality).

f. Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI): The relevant base collection of technologies, policies and institutional arrangements that facilitate the availability of and access to spatial data. An SDI consists of more than a single spatial data set or database; it hosts spatial data and attributes and provides sufficient documentation (metadata) as well as a means to discover, visualize, evaluate and access the data . An SDI is a technological infrastructure that supports and facilitates the discovery, assessment and delivery of digital geospatial information, including computer networks, connectivity, databases and Web service software.

Emerging technologies: Geomatics or Geospatial - Question identifier:38.

What is the purpose of the Geomatics or Geospatial technologies which are in use in your enterprise?

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

Select all that apply.

List of Emerging technologies: Geomatics or Geospatial:

a. Geographic information systems (GIS)
b. Global positioning system (GPS)
c. Remote sensing (RS)
d. Mobile device with geolocation capabilities
e. Web or wireless sensors
f. Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI)

• [ ]: Planning (e.g., visualization)
• [ ]: Monitoring supply in your enterprise, including harvesting and extraction activities
• [ ]: Monitoring inventory in your enterprise (e.g., raw materials or work in progress)
• [ ]: Monitoring distribution of outputs
• [ ]: End-product or service design
• [ ]: Other purpose - specify:

Emerging technologies: Geomatics or Geospatial - Question identifier:39.

Does your enterprise have alliances or collaborative arrangements with government or academia for the purpose of using Geomatics or Geospatial technologies?

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

List of Emerging technologies: Geomatics or Geospatial:

a. Geographic information systems (GIS)
b. Global positioning system (GPS)
c. Remote sensing (RS)
d. Mobile device with geolocation capabilities
e. Web or wireless sensors
f. Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI)

• ( ): Yes
• ( ): No

Emerging technologies: Geomatics or Geospatial - Question identifier:40.

What is the key driver for your enterprise using Geomatics or Geospatial technologies?

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

List of Emerging technologies: Geomatics or Geospatial:

a. Geographic information systems (GIS)
b. Global positioning system (GPS)
c. Remote sensing (RS)
d. Mobile device with geolocation capabilities
e. Web or wireless sensors
f. Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI)

• ( ): Competitiveness (e.g., competing on costs, meeting customer needs, maintaining market share)
• ( ): Improve existing products or processes
• ( ): Develop new products or processes
• ( ): Extend product range
• ( ): Improve flexibility of production or service provision
• ( ): Enable innovation in operations
• ( ): Keep pace with competitors
• ( ): Main business activity
• ( ): Other key driver - specify:

Emerging technologies: Geomatics or Geospatial - Question identifier:41.

What are the main challenges for your enterprise in using Geomatics or Geospatial technologies?

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

Select a maximum of three.

List of Emerging technologies: Geomatics or Geospatial:

a. Geographic information systems (GIS)
b. Global positioning system (GPS)
c. Remote sensing (RS)
d. Mobile device with geolocation capabilities
e. Web or wireless sensors
f. Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI)

• [ ]: Scientific or technical complexities
• [ ]: High development and implementation costs
• [ ]: Lack of access to financing
• [ ]: Lack of technical expertise and skilled personnel
• [ ]: Lack of standards
• [ ]: Regulatory constraints or uncertainties
• [ ]: Other challenge - specify:
• OR [ ]: No challenges

Emerging technologies: Nanotechnologies - Question identifier:42.

Does your enterprise use, develop or produce Nanotechnologies?

Nanotechnology is the manufacturing of devices and products from molecular or nano-scale components with extraordinary properties. One nanometer (1 nm) is one billionth of a metre (.000000001 m), three to four atoms wide. Examples of nanotechnology: nanoparticles, nanomaterials, nanocoatings, nanostructures, nanosystems, nanophotonics, nanoelectronics, nanomedicine, nanobiotechnology.

• ( ): Yes
• ( ): No

Emerging technologies: Nanotechnologies - Question identifier:43.

Indicate whether your enterprise uses these Nanotechnology applications.

Select all that apply.

• [ ]: Nanomaterials (includes organic and inorganic nanocomposites, nanopowders, nanoparticles, nanocoatings, carbon nanotubes)
• [ ]: Nanodevices, including sensors, Nanoelectromechanical systems (NEMS) and nano-enabled Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)
• [ ]: Nanoelectronics, including photonics, nano-optical devices, nano-optical sensors or nano-optical light emitters
• [ ]: Nano-enabled industrial processes (e.g., nano-enabled catalysts) including systems such as nanofabrication
• [ ]: Nano-enabled industrial products
• [ ]: Nano-enabled consumer products, including cosmetics and health care products
• [ ]: Nano-tools, hardware, instruments and software
• [ ]: Nanomedicine
• [ ]: Nanobiotechnology
• [ ]: Other application - specify:
• OR [ ]: None of the above

Emerging technologies: Nanotechnologies - Question identifier:44.

Indicate whether your enterprise develops or produces any of these Nanotechnology applications.

Select all that apply.

• [ ]: Nanomaterials (includes organic and inorganic nanocomposites, nanopowders, nanoparticles, nanocoatings, carbon nanotubes)
• [ ]: Nano-devices, including sensors, Nanoelectromechanical systems (NEMS) and nano-enabled Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)
• [ ]: Nanoelectronics, including photonics, nano-optical devices, nano-optical sensors or nano-optical light emitters
• [ ]: Nano-enabled industrial processes (e.g., nano-enabled catalysts) including systems such as nanofabrication
• [ ]: Nano-enabled industrial products
• [ ]: Nano-enabled consumer products including cosmetics and health care products
• [ ]: Nano-tools, hardware, instruments and software
• [ ]: Nanomedicine
• [ ]: Nanobiotechnology
• [ ]: Other application - specify:
• OR [ ]: None of the above

Emerging technologies: Nanotechnologies - Question identifier:45.

Which of the following field(s) apply to Nanotechnology in your enterprise?

Select all that apply.

• [ ]: Human health (e.g., diagnostics, therapeutics and drug)
• [ ]: Agriculture and food processing
• [ ]: Natural resources
• [ ]: Environment
• [ ]: Transportation
• [ ]: Information and communications technology
• [ ]: Construction
• [ ]: Other field - specify:

Emerging technologies: Nanotechnologies - Question identifier:46.

Does your enterprise have Nanotechnology alliances or collaborative arrangements with other entities?

• ( ): Yes
• ( ): No

Emerging technologies: Nanotechnologies - Question identifier:47.

Please identify your enterprise's Nanotechnology alliances or collaborative arrangements.

a. With university research institutions
b. With government research organizations
c. With other companies or non-profit organizations

• ( ): In Canada
• ( ): Abroad
• ( ): In Canada and abroad
• ( ): Not applicable

Emerging technologies: Nanotechnologies - Question identifier:48.

What is the key driver for your enterprise in using, developing or producing Nanotechnologies?

• ( ): Competitiveness (e.g., improve or maintain market position)
• ( ): Improve existing product or processes
• ( ): Develop new products or processes
• ( ): Extend product range
• ( ): Sustainability - use or develop green technologies
• OR ( ): Other key driver - specify:

Emerging technologies: Nanotechnologies - Question identifier:49.

What are the main challenges for your enterprise in using, developing or producing Nanotechnologies?

Select a maximum of three.

• [ ]: Scientific or technical complexities
• [ ]: High development costs
• [ ]: Lack of access to financing
• [ ]: Lack of qualified human resources
• [ ]: Lack of domestic market opportunity
• [ ]: Lack of standards
• [ ]: Regulatory constraints or uncertainties
• [ ]: Competition in Canada or abroad
• [ ]: Trade barriers
• [ ]: Other challenge - specify:
• OR [ ]: No challenges

Emerging technologies: Biotechnologies - Question identifier:50.

Does your enterprise use Biotechnology?

Note: For additional definitions or explanations refer to the Help button.

Help definitions

Enterprise is defined on the 'Business and Contact Information' screen - your survey answers should reflect the operations of the enterprise based on this definition.

Technology includes the technical means and know-how required to produce a product or service. It takes the form of equipment, materials, processes, blueprints and knowledge.

Emerging technologies: Biotechnologies

Biotechnology is the application of science and engineering in the direct or indirect use of living organisms in their natural or modified forms, in an innovative manner, when producing goods and services or improving existing processes. For the purpose of this survey, do not include fermentation for the production of beer, bread, cheese or yogurt. Biotechnologies are grouped into the following types:
- DNA (the coding): genomics/pharmaco-genetics, gene probes, DNA sequencing synthesis amplification, and genetic engineering, etc.
- Proteins and molecules (the functional blocks): protein/peptide sequencing/synthesis, lipid/protein engineering, proteomics, hormones, growth factors, pheromones, cell receptors, signalling, etc.
- Cell and tissue culture and engineering: cell/tissue culture, embryo manipulation, tissue engineering, hybridization, cellular fusion, vaccine/immune stimulants, etc.
- Process biotechnologies: bioreactors, fermentation (excluding beer, bread, cheese and yogurt), bioprocessing, bioleaching, biopulping, biobleaching, biodesulphurization; bioremediation; biofiltration, etc.
- Sub-cellular organisms: gene therapy, viral vectors, etc.
- Other: (bioinformatics, nanobiotechnologies, environmental biotechnology and other).

• ( ): Yes
• ( ): No

Emerging technologies: Biotechnologies - Question identifier:51.

Does your enterprise develop products or processes that require the use of Biotechnology?

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

List of Emerging technologies: Biotechnologies:

- DNA (the coding)
- Proteins and molecules (the functional blocks)
- Cell and tissue culture and engineering
- Process biotechnologies
- Sub-cellular organisms
- Other: (bioinformatics, nanobiotechnologies, environmental biotechnology and other)

• ( ): Yes
• ( ): No

Emerging technologies: Biotechnologies - Question identifier:52.

Which of the following applications in your enterprise relate to Biotechnology?

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

Select all that apply.

List of Emerging technologies: Biotechnologies:

- DNA (the coding)
- Proteins and molecules (the functional blocks)
- Cell and tissue culture and engineering
- Process biotechnologies
- Sub-cellular organisms
- Other: (bioinformatics, nanobiotechnologies, environmental biotechnology and other)

• [ ]: Human health - diagnostics
• [ ]: Human health - therapeutics and drugs
• [ ]: Agriculture
• [ ]: Natural resources
• [ ]: Environment
• [ ]: Aquaculture
• [ ]: Bioinformatics
• [ ]: Food processing
• [ ]: Other application - specify:

Emerging technologies: Biotechnologies - Question identifier:53.

Does your enterprise have Biotechnology alliances or collaborative arrangements with other entities?

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

List of Emerging technologies: Biotechnologies:

- DNA (the coding)
- Proteins and molecules (the functional blocks)
- Cell and tissue culture and engineering
- Process biotechnologies
- Sub-cellular organisms
- Other: (bioinformatics, nanobiotechnologies, environmental biotechnology and other)

• ( ): Yes
• ( ): No

Emerging technologies: Biotechnologies - Question identifier:54.

Please identify your enterprise's Biotechnology alliances or collaborative arrangements.

a. With university research institutions
b. With government research organizations
c. With other companies or non-profit organizations

List of Emerging technologies: Biotechnologies:

- DNA (the coding)
- Proteins and molecules (the functional blocks)
- Cell and tissue culture and engineering
- Process biotechnologies
- Sub-cellular organisms
- Other: (bioinformatics, nanobiotechnologies, environmental biotechnology and other)

• ( ): In Canada
• ( ): Abroad
• ( ): In Canada and abroad
• ( ): Not applicable

Emerging technologies: Biotechnologies - Question identifier:55.

What is the key driver for your enterprise in using or developing Biotechnologies?

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

List of Emerging technologies: Biotechnologies:

- DNA (the coding)
- Proteins and molecules (the functional blocks)
- Cell and tissue culture and engineering
- Process biotechnologies
- Sub-cellular organisms
- Other: (bioinformatics, nanobiotechnologies, environmental biotechnology and other)

• ( ): Competitiveness (e.g., improve or maintain market position)
• ( ): Improve existing product or processes
• ( ): Develop new products or processes
• ( ): Extend product range
• ( ): Sustainability - use or develop green technologies
• OR ( ): Other key driver - specify:

Emerging technologies: Biotechnologies - Question identifier:56.

What are the main challenges for your enterprise in using or developing Biotechnologies?

Note: Click the Help button to see the list of included technologies.

Select a maximum of three.

List of Emerging technologies: Biotechnologies:

- DNA (the coding)
- Proteins and molecules (the functional blocks)
- Cell and tissue culture and engineering
- Process biotechnologies
- Sub-cellular organisms
- Other: (bioinformatics, nanobiotechnologies, environmental biotechnology and other)

• [ ]: Scientific or Technical complexities
• [ ]: High development costs
• [ ]: Lack of access to financing
• [ ]: Lack of qualified human resources
• [ ]: Lack of domestic market opportunity
• [ ]: Lack of standards
• [ ]: Regulatory constraints or uncertainties
• [ ]: Competition in Canada or abroad
• [ ]: Trade barriers
• [ ]: Other challenge - specify:
• OR [ ]: No challenges

Emerging technologies: Bioproducts - Question identifier:57.

Does your enterprise use Bioproducts?

Bioproducts are commercial or industrial products other than food, feed and medicines made with biomass (living and recently dead biological or renewable materials from agricultural (plant or animal), marine or forestry resources including those from industrial or municipal wastes).

• ( ): Yes
• ( ): No

Emerging technologies: Bioproducts - Question identifier:58.

Does your enterprise develop Bioproducts?

• ( ): Yes
• ( ): No

Emerging technologies: Bioproducts - Question identifier:59.

Does your enterprise have Bioproducts alliances or collaborative arrangements with other entities?

• ( ): Yes
• ( ): No

Emerging technologies: Bioproducts - Question identifier:60.

Please identify your enterprise's Bioproduct alliances or collaborative arrangements.

a. With university research institutions
b. With government research organizations
c. With other companies or non-profit organizations

• ( ): In Canada
• ( ): Abroad
• ( ): In Canada and abroad
• ( ): Not applicable

Emerging technologies: Bioproducts - Question identifier:61.

What is the key driver for your enterprise in using or developing Bioproducts?

• [ ]: Competitiveness (e.g., improve or maintain market position)
• [ ]: Improve existing product or processes
• [ ]: Develop new products or processes
• [ ]: Extend product range
• [ ]: Sustainability - use or develop green technologies
• OR [ ]: Other key driver - specify:

Emerging technologies: Bioproducts - Question identifier:62.

What are the main challenges for your enterprise in using or developing Bioproducts?

Select a maximum of three.

• [ ]: Scientific or technical complexities
• [ ]: High development costs
• [ ]: Lack of access to financing
• [ ]: Lack of qualified human resources
• [ ]: Lack of domestic market opportunity
• [ ]: Lack of standards
• [ ]: Regulatory constraints or uncertainties
• [ ]: Competition in Canada or abroad
• [ ]: Trade barriers
• [ ]: Other challenge - specify:
• OR [ ]: No challenges

Medical devices for human health - Question identifier:63.

Does your enterprise develop or produce medical devices for human health?

• ( ): Yes
• ( ): No

Business practices - Question identifier:64.

Which of the following product development practices are regularly used in your enterprise?

Note: For additional definitions or explanations refer to the Help button.

Select all that apply.

Product development

a) Concurrent engineering : the conduct of engineering work simultaneously rather than sequentially with design work and other developmental activities.

b) Cross-functional design teams : groups responsible for product/process design. These groups are made up of people from all relevant functional areas, e.g., manufacturing, maintenance and finance, as well as users, each with authority to speak for their respective area. By simultaneously considering all aspects of development, production and use, such teams can increase quality, reduce the time from design to production, and minimize costs.

• [ ]: Concurrent engineering (Simultaneous design)
• [ ]: Cross-functional design teams
• OR [ ]: None of the above

Business practices - Question identifier:65.

Which of the following manufacturing and control management practices are regularly used in your enterprise?

Note: For additional definitions or explanations refer to the Help button.

Select all that apply.

Manufacturing and control management

a. Electronic work order management refers to the use of computers to process and analyze work orders. Work orders describe the work that must be completed and indicate the location, priority, department to be charged, originator, approvals, etc.

b. Distribution Resource Planning (DRP), also referred to as Distribution Requirements Planning, applies to units with distribution warehouses. This procedure determines where, when and how much should be shipped. Demands on central shipping and/or the manufacturing plant are mathematically estimated for every item using national demand forecasts and data on safety stock, transit time and economical shipping quantities.

c. Lean Manufacturing is an approach aimed at eliminating waste in all areas of production, including customer relations, product design, supplier networks and factory management. The goal is to reduce human effort, inventory, and product development time and space, in order to be highly responsive to customer demand while still producing top-quality products as efficiently and economically as possible.

d. Just-in-time control (JIT) is a low-inventory system in which suppliers agree to deliver what is needed, immediately before it is needed. This results in faster responses to market changes and lower costs, but requires close coordination with suppliers. (This principle can also be applied to operations within the business).

• [ ]: Electronic work order management
• [ ]: Distribution Resource Planning (DRP)
• [ ]: Lean manufacturing
• [ ]: Just-in-time (JIT)
• OR [ ]: None of the above

Business practices - Question identifier:66.

Which of the following quality management practices are regularly used in your enterprise?

Note: For additional definitions or explanations refer to the Help button.

Select all that apply.

Quality management

a. Continuous improvement (including Total Quality Management (TQM)): the persistent search for quality improvement using small steps continuously, as applied to product and process development - including TQM.

b. Business certification or certification renewals (e.g., ISO 9000, ISO 14000): any program that includes quality certification by a third party. ISO 9000 is an internationally recognized series of quality system standards and guidelines used to certify the consistency with which an establishment produces and delivers its products and services. While these standards enumerate the basic rules governing quality systems, the manner in which the systems are implemented must be adapted to the actual production for which registration is sought.

c. Statistical Process Control (SPC): the laws of probability and statistical techniques to the observed characteristics of a product or process.

d. Quality Management System (QMS): the policies and procedures necessary to improve and control the various processes that will ultimately lead to improve and control the various processes, which will then improve business performance.

e. Quality Function Deployment (QFD): designing and building quality into all aspects of both the product, and the processes associated with it.

f. Six Sigma: a quality-management program designed to achieve Six Sigma levels of quality. Pioneered by Motorola in the mid-1980s, Six Sigma aims to have the total number of failures in quality, or customer satisfaction, to be beyond the sixth sigma of likelihood in a normal distribution of customers - where sigma represents one standard deviation. Designing processes with tolerances of at least six standard deviations will, under reasonable assumptions, yield less than 3.4 defects per one million.

• [ ]: Continuous improvement (including Total Quality Management (TQM))
• [ ]: Business certification or certification renewals (e.g., ISO 9000, ISO 14000)
• [ ]: Statistical Process Control (SPC)
• [ ]: Quality Management System (QMS)
• [ ]: Quality Function Deployment (QFD)
• [ ]: Six sigma
• OR [ ]: None of the above

Business practices - Question identifier:67.

Which of the following collaboration practices are regularly used in your enterprise?

Note: For additional definitions or explanations refer to the Help button.

Select all that apply.

Collaboration

a. Collaboration or strategic alliance with universities, technical institutes or colleges: active participation in joint projects between your business and universities, technical institutes or colleges. Pure contracting-out work, in which no active participation occurs, is not regarded as collaboration or a strategic alliance.

b. Collaboration or strategic alliance with government research organizations and programs: active participation in joint projects between your business and government research organizations and programs. Pure contracting-out work, in which no active participation occurs, is not regarded as collaboration or a strategic alliance.

c. Collaboration or strategic alliance with other companies: the active participation in joint projects between your business and with other companies. Pure contracting-out work, in which no active participation occurs, is not regarded as collaboration or a strategic alliance.

• [ ]: Collaboration or strategic alliance with universities, technical institutes or colleges
• [ ]: Collaboration or strategic alliance with government research organizations and programs
• [ ]: Collaboration or strategic alliance with other companies
• OR [ ]: None of the above

Business practices - Question identifier:68.

Which of the following other practices are regularly used in your enterprise?

Note: For additional definitions or explanations refer to the Help button.

Select all that apply.

Other

a. Competitive Technological Intelligence (CTI) and benchmarking refer to the process by which you measure your business against industry leaders. It includes qualitative aspects, though effective benchmarking requires a certain level of output and financial performance measurement with respect to products, services and practices. Benchmarking is process-oriented, as opposed to simple performance measurement, which is results-oriented.

b. Sustainable development strategy or environmental stewardship plan (ESP) refers to a strategy or plan to produce goods, function, and grow, while working within the means of their environment and resources, and not deplete them to a point where they will sustain negative growth.

c. Product Data Management (PDM) or Life Cycle Management (PLM) refers to managing the life cycle and stage of a product, from conception to obsolescence.

d. Outsourcing some activities within Canada is the assignment of activities that will be carried out in other businesses, firms or organizations that would otherwise have been performed in the business. These activities can be performed in another business within the same firm or by a non-affiliated business, firm or organization. Activities are outsourced to another business, firm or organization within the same country.

e. Outsourcing some activities outside Canada is the assignment of activities that will be carried out in other businesses, firms or organizations that would otherwise have been performed in the business. These activities can be performed in another business within the same firm or by a non-affiliated business, firm or organization. Activities are outsourced to another business, firm or organization outside the country.

• [ ]: Competitive Technological Intelligence (CTI) and benchmarking
• [ ]: Sustainable development strategy or environmental stewardship plan (ESP)
• [ ]: Product Data Management (PDM) or Life Cycle Management (LCM)
• [ ]: Outsourcing some activities within Canada
• [ ]: Outsourcing some activities outside Canada
• [ ]: Other practice - specify:
• OR [ ]: None of the above

Product innovation - Question identifier:69.

Between the years 2012 and 2014, did your enterprise introduce:

a. New or significantly improved goods
b. New or significantly improved services

A product innovation is the market introduction of a new or significantly improved good or service with respect to its capabilities, user-friendliness, components or sub-systems.
- Product innovation (new or improved) must be new to your enterprise, but does not need to be new to your market.
- Product innovation could have been originally developed by your enterprise or by other enterprises.

• ( ): Yes
• ( ): No

Process innovation - Question identifier:70.

Between the years 2012 and 2014, did your enterprise introduce:

a. New or significantly improved manufacturing or production of goods or services
b. New or significantly improved logistics, delivery or distribution methods for your inputs, goods or services
c. New or significantly improved supporting activities for your processes, such as maintenance systems or operations for administration, purchasing, accounting or computing

A process innovation is the implementation of a new or significantly improved production process, distribution method or support activity for your goods or services.
- Process innovation must be new to your enterprise, but does not need to be new to your market.
- The innovation could have been originally developed by your enterprise or by other enterprises.
- Exclude purely organizational innovations.

• ( ): Yes
• ( ): No

Organizational innovation - Question identifier:71.

Between the years 2012 and 2014, did your enterprise introduce:

a. New business practices for organizing procedures (e.g., supply-chain management, business reengineering, knowledge management, lean production, quality management, etc.)
b. New methods of organizing work responsibilities and decision-making (e.g., the first time using a new system of employee responsibilities, teamwork, decentralization, addition or elimination of departments, education or training systems, etc.)
c. New methods of organizing external relations with other firms or public institutions (e.g., the first time using alliances, partnerships, outsourcing or subcontracting, etc.)

An organization innovation is a new organizational method in your enterprise's business practices (including knowledge management), workplace organization or external relations that has not been previously used by your enterprise.
- It must be the result of management's strategic decisions.
- Exclude mergers or acquisitions, even if for the first time.

• ( ): Yes
• ( ): No

Marketing innovation - Question identifier:72.

Between the years 2012 and 2014, did your enterprise introduce:

a. Significant changes to the aesthetic design or packaging of a good or service.
Exclude: changes that alter the product's functional or user characteristics - these are product innovations.
b. New media or techniques for goods or services promotion (e.g., the first time using a new advertising media, a new brand image, introduction of loyalty cards, etc.)
c. New methods for goods or services placement or sales channels (e.g., first time using franchising or distribution licenses, direct selling, exclusive retailing, new concepts for good or service presentation, etc.)
d. New methods of pricing goods or services (e.g., first time using variable pricing by demand, discount systems, etc.)

A marketing innovation is the implementation of a new marketing concept or strategy that differs significantly from your enterprise's existing marketing methods and has not been used before.
- It requires significant changes in product design or packaging, product placement, product promotion or pricing.
- Exclude seasonal, regular and other routine changes in marketing methods.

• ( ): Yes
• ( ): No