If you think the next generation of technology is the result of very smart scientists, working in very secret labs to make their new ideas a reality, you’re almost right. Thirty years ago I was one of those scientists working in a lab, having great ideas and doing my utmost to develop them. However, when you work in a linear environment, where your work cannot leave the confines of the lab, you’re restricted by design and knowledge of changing market applications and how others are implementing similar or competitive ideas. No single company can hire all of the world’s innovators. Adding the fact that fundamental innovations often take 10-15 years to reach the market just makes it more of an expensive and inherently risky investment, as there’s no guarantee the work will pay off.