Anthropotechnological Perspective in Adopting Virtual Reality Training Tool Technology Transfer in Malaysia Aerospace Industry

Abstract

The modern technology developed by advanced societies is always in high demand by developing societies that are striving to achieve technological advancement. However, in the transfer of technology, many mistakes were made by both the contributor and the receiver of the technology due to a failure to observe the cultural variables in the societies and the local context. This article analyses the theory of anthropotechnology with a focus on the sociotechnical aspect, based on the case study of Virtual Reality System for Training in Aerospace Manufacturing (VIRISTAM). This project involves a cross cultural technology transfer between France and Malaysia, which have distinct working cultures and varying levels of technological expertise. This article aims to analyse the sociotechnical block, especially in terms of communication, which could have a significant impact on the integration of the technology into the social context. This research employs a semi-structured interview, direct observation, and a focus group with 20 respondents in total as its methodological approach to collect the necessary data. This article concludes that it is almost rare that a method developed in one company can be transferred and applied elsewhere without any intervention. Anthropotechnology helps tailor the system of technology by taking into account the sociotechnical block, including sociocultural aspects, cognitive abilities, and organisational culture. This article also proposes a model that illustrates how an organisation can succeed in creating innovation while maintaining its sociotechnical perspective.