How can one research into a new technology for example in manufacturing or new ways of doing things?

Answer 1

Know and apply the steps in the research process!

Steps in the research process
1. Preliminary search of related scientific literature and observations or visits to research centers.
2. Identification / selection of a research problem.
3. Formulation of hypothesis: divide main problem into sub-problems and formulate a relevant hypothesis for each of the sub-problems.
4. Further search / review of related scientific literature.
5. Writing of research design.
6. Actual experimentation.
7. Data gathering, organization, processing, analysis and interpretation.
8. Formulation of a conclusion.

I hope this helps! Good luck!

Answer 2

I'm afraid your question is much too general. Manufacturing is a broad field, and every "thingy" is manufactured in a distinctly different manner. Certain new technologies may work for some, others require different new technologies.
Example: Robotics, Nanotechnology....
And then, if a manufacturer comes up with a new and useful technology, they won't publisise it publicly and to their competitors before it has been implemented and proven.
Why not start with something like http://www.manufacturingnews.com/

Answer 3

Try to find out ways of doing something better or in a new way.