The main area of research is the field of interaction between technology and applied sciences on the one hand and between economics and management on the other. The research is predominantly of an applied nature and preference is given to a multidisciplinary approach. Through its innovating research, the Department also aspires to steer the social debate on important policy questions. Assignments in the public interest are always given priority over assignments with a more specific purpose. Nevertheless, attention is paid in technology management to the operational dimension, which assumes a deliberate application of production technology for the benefit of the customer.
Organised research is conducted in a number of areas.
Within the field of Energy and the Environment the focus of attention is on prevention techniques and solutions for environmental and energy problems. Topics that are dealt with include waste prevention, energy conservation and renewable energy. In addition, policy developments are monitored, by means of studies into the market structure and regulation in the power industry, environmental policy planning, etc. Furthermore, a significant contribution is made in terms of contents and logistics to the drawing up of the Environmental and Nature Report for Flanders. The interrelation between technological possibilities, economic feasibility, problem control and social relevance always receives special attention.