Book excerpt: Comprehensive resource explaining how to evaluate technologies for different purposes in any industry using four different practical approaches By identifying emerging technology and application trends through analyses of published papers and patents, Future-Oriented Technology Assessment offers a comprehensive view of technology assessment structured into three different practical approaches: Technology Evaluation, Technology Roadmapping, and Technology Intelligence. The first three chapters include studies which utilize technology gap analysis, multiple criteria decision analysis, expert assessment quantification or neural networks to evaluate or forecast technology alternatives. The next four chapters use technology roadmapping, which charts a comprehensive plan for implementing technology. The final five chapters apply bibliometric analysis, patent analysis, and network analysis to identify technology trends and the leaders in the field. Additional topics covered in Future-Oriented Technology Assessment include: Smart grid technology as an alternative to fossil fuel consumption Heat pump water heaters that reduce the cost of energy and improve energy efficiency, with particular focus on research from the US and China Nanotechnology in construction in Saudi Arabia to improve heat insulation, energy efficiency, and tensile strength in green building designs With comprehensive, practical insight into evaluating emerging technologies across different industries, Future-Oriented Technology Assessment is an essential read for researchers in technology and professionals in engineering and technology management, along with professionals and graduate students in related disciplines and programs of study.