This volume intends to provide a methodological framework, capable of critically analyzing the multiple aspects related to technological dynamics, and to arrive - at times ex post, at times ex ante - at assessments regarding the economic results that can be achieved at all levels, with the innovation and diffusion of technologies in the manufacturing activities. For this purpose, this volume describes and critically evaluates conceptual and quantitative methods and models which seem capable of achieving this goal. This volume includes a number of distinctive features, the most important of which are the relationships between technological dynamics, knowledge, production systems and structures, quality, efficiency, natural resources, ecological systems and sustainable development. The approach used in organizing this volume has been an interdisciplinary one. Methods for analysis typical of various disciplines were used with the aim of arriving at economic conclusions, assessments and generalizations. In short, it may be defined as techno-economic.
