The transformation mechanisms discussed below are methodical, step-by-step processes for developing, demonstrating, evaluating, commercializing and, finally, realizing customer acceptance of a technology. The successful achievement of each step's goals is a prerequisite to moving onto the next step. Failure to meet these goals, or an attempt to skip a step, reduces the chances of the technology being accepted by customers. Also important to note is that no single entity takes responsibility for all steps, thus leading to limited success in areas.

Technical Foundation Mechanisms

Theory - This mechanism identifies a possible technology to satisfy an unfulfilled customer or user need. The technology is defined and researchers determine if the technology is achievable at some reasonable cost to the user. While research organizations like the LRC and other producers are primary players for this mechanism, input and funding from the other key players is mandatory.

Applied Research - This mechanism must prove the technical and economic concepts of the technology through technical and market research. Prototypes are developed as part of meeting this step's goals. Again, close collaboration with all key players is necessary as the research or manufacturing organizations endeavor to meet the goals of this mechanism. As one of its goals, the applied research mechanism identifies manufacturers willing to commercialize the technology and begin performing the necessary engineering for manufacturing.

Demonstrations - Full-scale demonstrations are necessary to "show the world" that the technology works and delivers the promised benefits. The demonstrations must answer any questions or concerns raised by users or spenders during the market research phase. The proof must be of the technology and its economics as applied to an actual, rather than laboratory, situation. Successful demonstrations with multiple locations or situations increase the acceptance of the technology. Funding and defining the measured metrics for this phase must come from other key players.

Test Methods and Metrics

The method and metrics on which the evaluation is conducted of a technology, especially during the demonstration step, must be acceptable and agreed to by the research community, as well as by all the key players. Test results must withstand the rigors of review. While this mechanism may seem intuitive, it may be the most important step of all transformation mechanisms. It sets the stage as to how believable the claims will be to the spenders, users, doers, producers and enablers and, ultimately, how successful the technology will be in the marketplace. Also, it provides a uniform means to measure results utilizing the same technology in different labs and facilities.

Market Enabling Mechanisms

Education - The education mechanism is meant to be broad in scope to include the necessity to educate all the key players about the benefits, abilities and limitations of the technology and why it should be adopted in the marketplace (i.e., what it will do to help society). This is the first step in bringing the technology to the market. Yet, many times organizations responsible for technology development do not view the educational function as part of their responsibilities. Funding for education should be included as part of any technology development, or else the technology may never advance to the market.

Promotional Programs - If the rigors of the test methods and metrics are met and if a successful education program is funded and executed, then, and only then, will the producers, enablers, utilities and state/regional agencies charged with the conduct of energy-efficiency programs promote the use of the technology to the spenders, doers and other users. Promotional programs can take many forms, such as utility incentive programs or endorsements. Manufacturers also play a role in promoting their products through advertisements and sales personnel.

Advocacy - This is the final step in the technology transfer model but does not occur until after the technology has reached some level of acceptance within the marketplace. It only occurs when there is public consensus of the use and benefits of the technology. Advocates then request that the benefits of the technology be included in regulations, codes and/or standards.