Invention and innovation: an introduction

11.7 Characteristics of inventors

12 Part 2: 3 Technology push and market pull

12.1 Two models

So far you've seen that there are two general drivers of invention. One is the scientific and technological knowledge and skills that can be applied to invent a new product or process. The other is the recognition of a need or a potential market for an invention. But is one more important than the other? I'll consider briefly two simple models that explain how the innovation process starts.