Core and Enabling Technologies (Updated 2/1/2009, Original 2/1/2009 by TQM Doctor)
The difference between a core and enabling technology is a matter of context of how one relates to the other. The core technology for an organization is the expertise required to accomplish the primary mission of the company while an enabling technology supports the core technology (Wing, 2009). For example, consider the common relationship between an American organization with a core technology of mechanical design and a Chinese company with a core technology of efficient fabrication systems. In the American company, one example of a technology that enables (supports) the core technology is a computer aided design (CAD) system. Conversely, a robotic powder coating system is an example of an enabling technology for the Chinese core technology of efficient fabrication.
“Vision turns an organization’s core ideology, or sense of purpose, into an image of what the future might become. It is a shared fantasy illuminating new possibilities within the realm of existing myths and values” (Bolman & Deal, 2003, p. 252). “The mission says why you do what you do, not the means by which you do it” (Drucker, 2003, p. 370). Therefore, the mission is the immediate where the vision is the future. Consequently, top management must align the mission and vision with the core ideology and core technology. The core and enabling technologies should support the vision. For that reason, top management must consider how well the core ideology aligns with the core technology, especially when creating the vision. If alignment is difficult, then management must resolve the larger issues before an effective vision is possible.
Reference
Bolman, L. G., & Deal, T. E. (2003). Reframing organizations: Artistry, choice, and leadership (3rd ed.). San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.
Drucker, P. F. (2003). What is our mission? In Business leadership: A Jossey-Bass reader (pp. 369-372). San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.
Wing, L. (2009). The impact of technology on organizations. Unpublished manuscript.