From Innovation to Application: Overcoming Barriers in Drone Technology Adoption in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises
Despite significant advancements in drone technology, widespread adoption—particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)—remains limited due to various challenges. In this talk, I will explore the key technological and non-technological barriers hindering the integration of cutting-edge drone technologies. These barriers include limited access to and lack of awareness of advanced technologies, ethical concerns, and mismatch between real-world problems and proposed solutions. Using the example of an innovative, intelligent, modular flying hand— capable of passive and active physical interaction with its environment for tasks at high altitude— I will demonstrate how modularization through standardization, early-stage problem-solution mapping, and strategic selection of application domains can accelerate adoption. We will also discuss approaches to public engagement, a critical factor for industry uptake and broader societal acceptance of drone technologies. This presentation aims to bring together diverse perspectives, advancing collaboration to overcome these barriers and fully benefit from the potential of drones in various sectors. Addressing these challenges is crucial, not only for driving technological innovation but also for preserving sovereignty in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.