If technology is such an important strategic issue, why do the top executives play a minor role in its decision process?

This research examines the roles of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) regarding new product technology in US multi-product organizations. This exploratory research study examines data collected from Fortune "500" companies which listed their annual R&D spending in the firm's annual report and SEC's 10 K. Two related, but different questionnaires were used, one addressed to the CEO, the other to the CTO. The research examines the following questions. (1) if new technology development is one of the key sustainable competitive advantages, is it best acquired internally, or externally, and who plays the major role in those decisions. A number of firms are using CTOs to provide leadership in this decision process. (2) Do firms make use of a Science Advisory Committee (SAC) to assist in this most difficult task and is there a pattern of use of a SAC that differs depending on the educational background of the CEO? These findings of insight into new strategic approaches to technology decisions.