Overview of research and development in Myanmar

Research and development is long term work directed towards the innovation, introduction and improvements of products and processes. The function of research and development at the core is to develop new products in order to acquire larger shares of the market as in this day and age there is fierce competition involving the preferences of the consumer. Research and development basically falls into two categories. That of engineers who develop and test new products such as electronics, and then industrial scientists who undertake applied research. The research and development department in a company is a smidgen different to there other departments as the activities are future orientated activities not seeking an immediate and direct profit. Industries with particularly high research and development expenditure include pharmaceutical and electronics. Take for example the evolution of the mobile phone of the last 20 years. In the 1990’s mobile telephones resembled bricks. Then they got leaner and smaller and smaller, then over the last 10 years they have evolved in such a way that they are basically computers, and there are a multitude of functions including outstanding cameras. They will just keep on evolving to meet the demand thanks to research and development. Research and development is not all about inventing and developing the product. Initially research is conducted to determine market needs. a research analyst will design and prepare sampling plans, and use both qualitative or quantitative methods of research (or both which is referred to as triangulation) to draw conclusions which are as accurate as possible. They then construct tables, prepare charts, graphs or other forms of output to assist with the data analysis and reporting.

Career advancement in research and development in Myanmar

Research and development is a vital part of many industries, especially in this global environment where everything is evolving so incredibly fast. In Myanmar, there seems to be a trend of individuals having a higher disposable income and this coupled with recent reforms which encourage economic investment has meant that many international companies have begun to set up offices here. International companies, especially industries such as automative, pharmaceutical and electronics seem to have the best employment opportunities in research and development. To obtain a job in research and development requires a relevant tertiary degree (in engineering or science normally), and from there an internship in the desired industry, preferable with an admired mentor. Research and development is an ongoing process, and to be successful one needs to be creative, innovative, have a high level of intelligence, acute attention to detail, be able to work both independently and in a team, and of course be good with computers and communication and reporting. To move forward in the field a masters or PhD is the normal standard. Other jobs in research and development such as market research also require a degree, in either marketing or the social sciences in order to conduct efficient and accurate research. From there, market researchers often move into a marketing manager role, or into a sales or business development role.