As the investor, it is up to you to determine what the development path is for your team.

Once the game begins and your scouts begin exploring the sectors, you'll need to continually watch your status messages and Map display for new asteroid types. A number of structures require specific asteroid types to build them. The availability of the different asteroid types will have a direct bearing on the tech tree direction you can take.

When determining your technology path, you'll want to decide if you are going to go for complete new classes of ships or upgrade and further develop the armaments and technology you currently have in stock. The path you wish to develop is completely up to you -- just keep an eye on the developments of the other team(s). If they suddenly show up with Stealth Fighters and you only have Interceptors to defend with, you may find your game nearly over before it began. If you feel that heavy conflict might be some time off, you may wish to put your investments into new structures to get the new classes of ships. If the other team does not have many players, then a heavily equipped Cruiser could cause some serious damage.