Technology and competitiveness: a key to the economic future of the United States.

The United States still is a leader in technology and innovation, but American industry has been slow to translate that advantage into commercial success. A major contributing factor is the low status accorded manufacturing in this country and a lack of teamwork among scientists, engineers, and managers. However, there are encouraging signs that these key players in the innovation cycle are recognizing the need to work together to improve products and manufacturing processes and to restore the competitive position of the United States.