Frugal Engineering & Technological Innovation

Abstract

For better or worse, digital technologies are reshaping everything, from customer behaviors and expectations to organizational and manufacturing systems, business models, markets, and ultimately society. To understand this overarching transformation, this paper extends the previous literature which has focused mostly on the organizational level by developing a multi-level research agenda for digital transformation (DT). In this regard, we propose an extended definition of DT as ?a socioeconomic change across individuals, organizations, ecosystems, and societies that are shaped by the adoption and utilization of digital technologies.? We suggest four lenses to interpret the DT phenomenon: individuals (utilizing and adopting digital technologies), organizations (strategizing and coordinating both internal and external transformation), ecosystems (harnessing digital technologies in governance and co-producing value propositions), and geopolitical frameworks (regulating the environments in which individuals and organizations are embedded). Based on these lenses, we build a multi-level research agenda at the intersection between the bright and dark sides of DT and introduce the PIAI framework, which captures a process of perception, interpretation, and action that ultimately leads to possible impact. The PIAI framework identifies a critical research agenda consisting of a non-exhaustive list of topics that can assist researchers to deepen their understanding of the DT phenomenon and provide guidance to managers and policymakers when making strategic decisions that seek to shape and guide the DT.

Abstract

Innovation ecosystems evolve and adapt to crises, but what are the factors that stimulate ecosystem growth in spite of dire circumstances? We study the arduous path forward of the electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem and analyse in depth those factors that influence ecosystem growth in general and during the pandemic in particular. For the EV ecosystem, growth implies outcompeting the less sustainable internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, thus achieving a transition towards sustainable transportation. New mobility patterns provide a strategic opportunity for such a shift to green mobility and for EV ecosystem growth. For innovation ecosystems in general, we suggest that a crisis can serve as an opportunity for new innovations to break through by disrupting prior behavioural patterns. For the EV ecosystem in particular, it remains to be seen if the ecosystem will be able to capitalize on the opportunity provided by the unfortunate disruption generated by the pandemic.

Abstract

While thinking in constraints is a key element of frugal innovation, it remains underexplored in the context of developing frugal innovations. Based on insights from the literature and two cases from the medical device industry, this article introduces the concept of constraint-based thinking to drive the frugal product development process based on constraints. This approach is operationalized through a systematic and iterative process to investigate the visible and underlying symptoms of different types of constraints, which are then mapped to specific product features and requirements. It consists of a problem space and a solution space, which are based on the idea that constraints are opportunities to develop innovative solutions. The main components of the constraint-based thinking approach are as follows: first, the identification of constraints or existing limitations, hindrances behind the current status quo that need to be changed; second, a root-cause analysis to understand the underlying causes for each of the identified constraints; third, a mapping of each of those causes to specific product characteristics or requirements; and, fourth, development of a minimal viable product or a prototype. This approach can be used both by companies to develop frugal innovations and by researchers to further develop the link between constraints and new products and services.

Abstract

Publishing in international journals is important but also a tricky task. Before this background, this editorial gives a consolidated overview of key aspects to guide authors along developing and submitting a scientific article in IEEE Transactions on Engineering Management. For this, we provide insights into formal requirements, with a major on specific article requirements that must be considered. With two checklists, we summarize key questions which every author should consider before submitting an article to IEEE TEM. Beyond that, the readers might also find these suggestions helpful for any other academic outlet, especially in the field of technological innovation and engineering management.

Abstract

Das Management von Forschung und Entwicklung ist eine der wichtigsten unternehmerischen Funktionen, insbesondere in technologierorientierten Branchen. Vor diesem Hintergrund bietet dieses Buch einen umfassenden Überblick aller strategischen, operativen und taktischen Maßnahmen, die für ein erfolgreiches F&E Management notwendig sind. Darüber hinaus werden bewährte Tools und Best Practices vorgestellt, welche im F&E Management eingesetzt werden.

Abstract

The synonymic use of sustainable innovation types obstructs the impact of increasingly disperse research on sustainable innovation, environmental innovation, eco-innovation, and green innovation. To identify the meaning and contributions of each innovation type over time, we apply co-word analysis as a bibliometric technique to 1,985 papers, analysing the evolution of motor, emergent and basic themes for each type. For environmental innovation, the focus has shifted from environmental regulations and policies to patents and inventions with an environmental impact, while in sustainable innovations the societal impact of technology adoption has become a driver. Green innovation increasingly concerns environmental technology and its management, whereas eco-innovation studies aspects related to efficiency and decision making. Clear distinctions among sustainable innovation types will increase the impact of this expanding body of research and make it more available to managers and policymakers.

Abstract

Chinese innovation is again flowing westwards, which is fomented by China’s Belt and Road Initiative. In this context, we study the international impact of innovations from specific countries. Based on panel data of patents from 27 countries over 17 years, we find that levels of open innovation, technological complexity, and dominant design influence the international impact of innovations from a country. Contrary to earlier research, however, this influence is negative when open innovation activities are involved. This is particularly relevant in the context of Chinese innovation, in which the same innovation networks that promote efficient production may hinder the development of innovations. Due to the innate uncertainty and newness of innovation, partners beyond the common local and long‐term networks must be included. Hence, to effectively create a New Silk Road of Innovation, innovation ecosystems may need to expand across national borders. This opens up fruitful avenues for future research, and individuals with multiple cultural identities can bridge the gaps between contexts.

Abstract

Prospective surveys are a common research mode used to establish a profound decision base for R&D investments, technological innovation, and policy making. The challenge faced by participants of such surveys, particularly if conducted via impersonal survey modes (e.g., mail or online surveys), is the limited ability to clarify contextual issues. Related research in socio‐psychology refers to language vagueness as abstractness, cautioning that abstract language and the way people interpret information are related. We apply Construal Level Theory and the Linguistic Category Model from linguistic sciences to the context of prospective surveys and examine the effects of abstract language and its related amount of information on panelists' response behavior. Based upon 32,000 observations, our research reveals that higher abstractness and greater amount of information reduce the clarity of the respondents' assessments of survey questions. In particular, abstract language and lengthy questions lead to less extreme assessments and a reduced response variance of panelists.

Abstract

This study focuses on the dilemmas that social entrepreneurs encounter, and the practices used to manage dilemmas over time. Using a multi-method approach involving event structure analysis and an inductive multiple case study, we find four key organizational practices—asset multiplication, leveraging human capital, social embeddedness and affordable quality —that embody jugaad elements of frugality and inclusivity. Adding to social entrepreneurship literature, this study demonstrates that the jugaad approach is conceptually distinct from bricolage and relevant to study resource mobilization processes of social enterprises.

Abstract

Digitalization plays a major role in contributing towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Without transformation of existing businesses, both economic and environmental challenges of the future cannot be solved sustainably. However, there is much confusion on interrelationships and terms dealing with digitization or digitalization: Digital business model, digital transformation, digital entrepreneurship. How do these terms interrelate with and to digitalization, and how do they support firms to grow sustainably? To answer this question, we identified seven core digital-related terms based on a structured literature search within the management and economics domain, namely: Digital, Business Model, Digital Business Model, Digital Technology, Digital Innovation, Digital Transformation, and Digital Entrepreneurship. Thereafter, we analyzed prior literature for deriving a common understanding and definition as a basis for interrelations within a conceptual framework. Definitions were presented in a case study setup with twelve innovation and research and development (R&D) managers from various business units of a German high-tech company. Based on these insights, we propose a conceptual framework on how Digital Readiness, Digital Technology, and Digital Business Models might sustainably relate to Innovation, moderated by a Digital Transformation Process. With this approach, we aim to equip practitioners and researchers alike in handling and addressing change through digitalization sustainably.

Abstract

Frugal innovation is emerging as a growing trend in both the developing and developed parts of the world. In developing countries, such cost-effective and accessible frugal innovations are necessary to overcome extreme conditions and existing resource constraints. In developed countries, however, companies are engaging in frugal innovations due to the growing awareness of eco-friendly and sustainable consumption (Kroll, Gabriel, Braun, & Engasser, 2017). Hence, companies are increasingly adopting new technologies to get on the wave of frugal innovation and are successfully developing more accessible and resourceful solutions (Weill & Woerner, 2013). Leading technologies such as mobile services, cloud technologies, 3D printing, and machine learning, are consistently being used to develop frugal innovations on a global scale. Recent literature has emphasised the role of new technologies as enablers of frugal innovation. However, insight on such innovations is limited (Ahuja & Chan, 2014; Agarwal & Brem 2017b). Prior research has rather focused on exploring the unique conditions of emerging markets as well as understanding the needs of bottom-of-the-pyramid customer segments (Radjou & Prabhu, 2016). Thus, the question of how new technologies can be utilised to address specific requirements of resource-constrained customers is still unanswered. Therefore, this chapter investigates multiple cases of technology-enabled frugal innovation across the globe. The aim is to understand how the new technologies are being used to develop frugal innovations that meet the needs of resource-constrained customers. For this purpose, six cases of technology-enabled frugal innovations from different industries are investigated.

Abstract

In recent years, frugal innovation and its antecedents have gained significant attention in both theory and practice. However, the vast majority of research focuses mainly on China and India and their bottom of the pyramid (BoP) customers. Against this background, our research investigates frugal innovation and its reception in Brazil. We analyse six Brazilian company cases (three multinational corporations and three small- and medium-sized enterprises) in terms of frugal product development, product characteristics, and commercialisation approaches, as well as compare these organisations with findings from Asian lead markets. Our results confirm that the principal dimensions of frugal innovation are cost-effectiveness and ease of use. However, the findings also contradict the paradigm that frugal innovation must be essentially low-cost. Based on these results, we propose a twofold approach to the cost criterion that differentiates between the companys and the customers perspective and focuses on value-based pricing. Further, distinctive product features, branding, and specific marketing activities are crucial for successful frugal innovation in Brazil. This research extends the classification of frugal innovation in prior literature and suggests understanding frugal dimensions as a set of building blocks that can be flexibly applied to frugal product development depending on the context and regional requirement

Abstract

Research on R&D performance measures applied in firms is still scarce. Based on the established “R&D laboratory as a system” thinking, systematically derive and identify R&D department level key performance measures. Through a mixed‐method approach, grounded in (1) literature and (2) text analysis, 154 R&D performance measures were developed. Amongst those, an (3) online expert survey, as well as (4) three independent focus group workshops with >40 industry experts from more than ten industries identified and validated ten key R&D performance measures. All industry experts involved are members of an innovation network, additionally accounting for innovation network effects. In contrast to earlier research, some of the measures like degree of anticipation of internal customer needs were perceived both by the survey respondents and the focus groups as key measures, indicating that behavioral measures should not be excluded per se. However, the importance of external validity of R&D performance or indicators to measure performance in relation to activities outside the R&D department were not confirmed. Hence, we partly confirm the relevance of the original “R&D Lab” measures, contributing a more granular level, thereby drawing implications for future research and practice.

Abstract

Most of the firms currently in the S&P 500 will probably not be part of this list in 15 years. In times of great uncertainty managers are called to make the right choices in their strategy, they are asked to preserve the core businesses, and to prepare their organizations for an unclear future. How can managers make the right choices when the whole industry is under transformation? In this light, we explore how the popular VUCA framework can help to make sense of turbulent contexts and drive the decision-making of managers. We study the case of the energy industry, where, in a short period of time, traditional business models eroded, and dominant players lost their positions in the industry. Based on personal interviews with the CEOs from RWE (Germany) and NRG (USA) we analyze how they led the transformation of their organizations. We get immersed in their decision- making processes and depict how the VUCA framework help them to identify, map and prepare their organizations to respond to the volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity in their industry. We propose a guide for executive managers to navigate through VUCA contexts, taking into account the necessity to introduce short and long-term responses that prepare organizations and stakeholders for an uncertain future

Abstract

Managing Innovation is a three-part series covering contemporary technology and innovation management research areas. Each volume comprises key articles from both the International Journal of Innovation Management and the International Journal of Innovation and Technology Management and provides an international, disciplinary approach across its broad coverage of topics. Relevant for both academics and practitioners, this volume looks at the international aspects of innovation with case studies from China, Germany, India and Russi

Abstract

Managers need to actively drive the growth of innovation ecosystems. This paper describes the obstacles companies face when commercializing innovations and identifies strategies for overcoming these barriers through activating innovation ecosystems. We explore three ecosystems at different stages of maturity, namely San Francisco, Barcelona, and Nairobi, and derive a taxonomy of strategies for activating innovation ecosystems with regard to the maturity of the ecosystem. The paper thus contributes to the wealth of knowledge concerning the commercialization of innovations in general and within innovation ecosystems in particular. We fill a gap in the understanding of the stages of maturity of innovation ecosystems, and the corresponding actions required by managers and policy makers. Policy makers and other actors can incentivize ecosystem development through adapting initiatives to the maturity of the ecosystem in question.

Abstract

In recent years, there has been a shift in the epicenter of innovation from developed to emerging markets. Western multinationals are increasingly harnessing the potential of emerging markets by setting up local subsidiaries and developing frugal and reverse innovations. This study is an attempt to explore this shift and investigate the process of development of these innovations using a case study analysis approach. The study analyzes the case of a technology-based Danish multinational (MNC) and explores how frugal innovations in India and China are developed. Based on nine interviews with leading R&D experts, the results provide evidence for the ongoing innovation shift and offer insights into the development of frugal products in local R&D projects. Growing traction towards reverse innovation, where MNCs are developing frugal products for global markets is also an important finding. <

Abstract

These days, crowdfunding has become an established tool for entrepreneurial financing. Beyond that, it also established a new way of innovation marketing, especially for high-tech products: using crowdfunding to find out if there is a market for the product. Without the goal of collecting money for the start-up, this approach makes a new strategic approach necessary how to setup entrepreneurial commercialization strategies. This chapter offers insights into such crowdfunding behavior, and how technology entrepreneurs can make use of it. For this, a market theory perspective is taken on crowdfunding platforms, with implications for theory and practice.

Abstract

Digital technologies have become a new economic and social force, reshaping traditional business models, strategies, structures, and processes. Digital entrepreneurship, which focuses on creating new ventures and transforming existing businesses by developing novel digital technologies or their novel usage, is seen as a critical pillar for economic growth, job creation, and innovation by many countries. Further, digital technologies have also enabled the growth of the sharing economy, linking owners and users and disrupting the previous dualism of businesses and customers.This volume discusses the management of new technology-based firms and technology projects initiated in academic or industrial contexts. The contributions feature new theoretical concepts, ethical considerations, empirical data analysis (qualitative and quantitative), archival and historical methods, design science approaches, action and field research, as well as management science methods, informatics and cybernetics.

Abstract

This book captures recent research on managing mobile technologies. It provides a handbook-style reference to professionals in different industries to help them manage the very latest technologies that have become a part of every business today. The book reviews multiple perspectives of the challenges brought by the introduction of mobile technologies into our lives. The technical perspective covers major constructs at play; the organizational perspective reviews international cases; and the personal perspective investigates the adoption of emerging applications and their impact. By reviewing multiple perspectives, readers will be able to adopt a tool to manage the complexities and challenges brought by the mobile technologie

Abstract

Qualitative Forschung in der Betriebswirtschaftslehre – ein nach wie vor oft vernachlässigtes Thema. Denn schwerpunktmäßig werden qualitative Verfahren vorwiegend in soziologischen Bereichen angewandt, obwohl in vielen Lehrbüchern zur empirischen Forschung die Zusammengehörigkeit von quantitativen und qualitativen Verfahren – auch in der Betriebswirtschaftslehre – beschworen wird. Vor diesem Hintergrund stellt vorliegender Beitrag die historische Entwicklung der Wissenschaftsziele in der Betriebswirtschaft dar, um über die Mischform der angewandten Forschung auf die Rahmenbedingungen für anwendungsorientierte, qualitativ-empirische Forschung in der Betriebswirtschaftslehre zu sprechen zu kommen. Nach der Definition elementarer Begrifflichkeiten wie Bezugsrahmen, Modell und Theorie und der Abgrenzung quantitativer zu qualitativer Forschung schließt der Beitrag mit dem Vorschlag einer theoriegenerierenden Forschungsstrategie für qualitative Untersuchungen im betriebswirtschaftlichen Kontext.

Abstract

Understanding how a new digital technology can translate into a valuable innovation is a challenge for established players and new entrants. For industrial players in an ecosystem it can be both a threat or an opportunity. Furthermore, the new technologies open collaboration opportunities between corporates and startups. But, it is remains unclear what are the consequences of opening up, and whether it has an impact on the innovation dynamics in the industrial ecosystem. We use the case of the Wind Industry in Denmark, as a maturing industrial ecosystem, to study when and how the new entrants (technology entrepreneurs) have had an impact on the innovation dynamics. We first combine archival data with interviews to build an historical account of the evolution of the industrial ecosystem, then we incorporate data from the new entrants in the industry to specify the types of innovations that the most recent digital technology entrepreneurs have triggered. The results suggest differences in the innovation dynamics depending on the value chain position. While some activities have remained rather closed (for instance the technological development of the core elements in the wind turbines), the operations and maintenance activities have profited from digital technologies introduced by new entrants. Using these insights, we present and discuss suggestions to institutional actors interested in protecting the innovation leadership of their regional industrial ecosystems.

Abstract

This book addresses the issue of managing modern medical innovations through an inductive approach of looking into cases before putting forward solutions in terms of strategies and tools. It provides a model for the designing and implementation of effective healthcare technology management (HTM) systems in hospitals and healthcare provider settings, as well as promotes a new method of analysis of hospital organization for decision-making regarding technology to deliver better medical technological innovations. Given that medical innovations are mostly driven by technology (bottom-up) rather than top-down desires from the medical profession, the authors propose a strategy to manage medical technological innovations by finding a balance between bottom-up innovations (taking into consideration constraints, or standard for conformity, such as HL7) and what medical professionals want and need. In this book, the authors evaluate the issues of innovation strategies and present survey tools available to implement good designs. Case studies are used to demonstrate some of the applications areas of concepts and ideas outlined in the book. Managing Medical Technological Innovations is organized in three parts. Part 1 covers innovation strategies, laying the groundwork and concepts in design thinking. Part 2 follows by presenting the tools available for implementation. And finally, Part 3 uses the case studies of pharmaceutical firms in China and Holland's hospital medical record management system to illustrate how these ideas and methodologies have been applie

Abstract

A rich body of literature has emerged from research on Western new product development (NPD). However, the impact of country- and culture-specific influences on these processes has not been examined in detail yet. Hence, this study identifies the differences in NPD practices between the Indian and German research and development (R & D) subsidiaries of multinational companies (MNCs). Data have been generated by interviews with R & D executives in both countries across multiple cases. The study samples strategic, organisational, and operational aspects and indicates differences in process coordination, reward systems, NPD creativity techniques, market orientation, and the average age of NPD teams. Other aspects, such as top management support, the use of structured NPD processes, and the use of heterogeneous NPD teams, show no substantial differences between the countries. Our findings suggest that, while some aspects are universally applicable across cultural frontiers, Western companies must understand Indias different expectations regarding NPD and adjust their practices accordingly.

Abstract

Emerging markets are considered to have huge economic potential, both for entrepreneurs and established firms. To foster innovation in these markets, it is important that customers and companies use the same terminology, with the same understanding of key terms. But is this really the case? Based on eight product requirements, this research empirically analyzes the perception of emerging market innovation terminologies. For this, we use the case of the Indian healthcare sector. On the one hand Voice of Customer method was used to gather the product requirements from the customers. On the other hand, Analytic Hierarchy Process technique was employed to identify the preferences for both product managers and customers. Our results confirm the high level of importance of ‘affordable value innovations’ and ‘ease of use functionality’ for new products introduced in emerging markets. Interestingly, the category ‘products with low or no maintenance or consumables’ comes high on the preference map for the customers but seems to be a blind spot from the manufacturers' perspective. This result opens opportunities for entrepreneurs focusing on new customer bases in emerging markets and also for various corporate entrepreneurship activities.

Abstract

To date, scholarly understanding of external dimensions of market driving for the purposes of ‘societal change’ is largely unexplored in both developed and emerging market contexts. This paper uses a multiple case study approach to understand how market driving social enterprises (across the hybrid spectrum) create societal change in emerging markets. By drawing on Scott's (1995) three-part conceptualization of institutional legitimacy, this study explores how regulative, normative and cognitive legitimacies are invoked by market driving social enterprises at the Bottom of the Pyramid (BoP). Key contributions of the study show that all three dimensions of legitimacy are relevant but they need to be invoked in a specific order based on necessary and optional conditions. An implication of the study is that market driving through societal change can lead to the construction of new and more inclusive healthcare market

Abstract

Make-or-buy decisions on technology-intensive components represent a key task in the management of technologies. Against this background, this paper presents an analysis of a technology company which gave key insights into their make-or-buy decisions on the strategic and operative level. The results show two kinds of make-or-buy decisions, called type 1 and type 2. In contrast to type 1 make-or-buy decisions whose scope is mostly limited to the production and quality function, type 2 decisions are strongly linked to engineering and R&D activities. Moreover, two new decision matrices are introduced: a ‘product/subsystem aggregation’ scheme and a ‘make-or-buy controlling’ matrix. In an environment in which companies move towards greater use of outsourcing, the framework ensures that company strategy and core competencies are followed in the long run despite short-range deviations of make-or-buy analysis results. These findings might be helpful and suitable to other manufacturing companies that deal with technology-intensive components on a strategic and operative level.

Abstract

Purpose The approach of Western companies to internationalise their R&D by establishing R&D sites in emerging markets (EMs) has led to a discussion about the role of R&D in home markets and host markets. The purpose of this paper is to shed light on the evolution of foreign R&D sites of Western companies in EMs and their role using China as the empirical context. Design/methodology/approach The study uses the State Intellectual Property Office database, and investigates about 2,000 patent families of the top 14 Western patent applicants in China. Findings The results indicate a gradual shift from an exploitative to an exploratory role of R&D sites in China. The study also shows evident learning effects on Western R&D from local counterparts. Research limitations/implications The paper motivates further research of R&D internationalisation approaches within EMs, and explores the changing role of local subsidiaries. While the study is only focussed on China, the applicability of the results is limited in context of other countries, due to cultural, economic and legislative differences. Practical implications This study shows the increasing importance of EMs such as China and how these markets, known for imitations and cheap resources, are gradually moving towards innovations and creating new technologies locally. Originality/value Based on the patent analysis, this study shows the growing importance of the local R&D subsidiaries of Western multinationals in Chin

Abstract

From research on Western new product development (NPD) practices a rich body of literature has emerged. However, the impact of country specific and cultural influences has not been examined in this context yet. This study is a first attempt to identify differences in NPD practices between Research and Development (R&D) subsidiaries in Germany, China and India within multinational companies. Data has been generated by qualitative interviews with R&D executives in those countries across multiple cases. The study samples strategic, organizational and operational aspects indicates definite differences in process coordination, rewarding systems, market orientation and the average age of NPD teams. Other aspects like strategic targets, the management involvement, etc. show rather slight differences across the countries. Hence, findings suggest that while some aspects are universally applicable across cultural frontiers, Western companies have to understand different expectations regarding NPD in India and China by adjusting practices accordingl

Abstract

Constraint-based innovations are innovations that are conceived under conditions of scarcity for resource-constrained markets, often referred to as Bottom of pyramid (BoP) marketplace. One such type of constraint-based innovation, frugal innovation (also the focus of this study) has played an impor- tant role in providing affordable and accessible products and services to the customers at BoP.This study examines one of the successful frugal innovations from the Indian financial sector called Vortex solar based transaction systems (commonly known as rural ATMs) and offers a comprehensive analysis on the incorporated bottom-up product development process and innovation drivers. Study highlights the nine specific innovative design features of these machines that were mainly designed based on core customer requirements and unique challenges. Analysis reveals the importance of cost effective, easy to operate and sustainable solutions for customers at BoP and also showcase how frugal innovations are also facilitating solutions to address larger societal problems. 

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to explore how relationships between different actors are being shaped to allow industry to come to acceptable and desirable uses of research and innovation (R&I) that address societal challenges. Design/methodology/approach: Building on existing notions of responsibility proposed in the literature, the paper develops a theoretical account of “networks of responsibility” which capture the interlinked nature of responsibility relationships. The usefulness of the approach is evaluated by exploring two cases of R&I in industry deploying a qualitative research approach that involves interviewing and document analysis. For this, a multinational company from Germany was involved, as well as a small- and medium-sized company from Denmark. Findings: The study surfaced 68 responsibility relationships involving a range of different objects, subjects, authorities and norms. By describing overlaps in objects, subjects and other aspects across relationships, the theoretical model proved adequate in untangling and displaying interrelatedness of responsibilities. Furthermore, the analysis surfaced characteristics of responsible research and innovation (RRI) that are already in place in the R&I processes of two innovative companies, such as anticipation, foresight and stakeholder engagement. Not all aspects of responsibility outlined in the theoretical model could be extracted from the interview data for every responsibility relationship, pointing to the need for further research. Practical implications: The paper is practically relevant because it supports policy development on an organisational, as well as societal level. Moreover, the networks of responsibility model offer a fine-grained assessment of responsibilities in R&I practice by mapping existing responsibilities which supports translating RRI principles into everyday organisational practices. Social implications: RRI sets an ambitious agenda to ensure a more social and ethical R&I. Much work is still needed to bridge the gap between these theoretical and political aspirations and daily R&I practice, especially in non-academic contexts such as industry. By offering a way to understand and untangle the complexity of responsibility relationships, the networks of responsibility model seem to offer a promising approach that can support this endeavour. Originality/value: The paper offers a novel theoretical approach to understanding and analysing responsibility allocations in R&I in industry. It demonstrates the reliability of this theoretical position empirically. It is practically important because it supports policy development on an organisational as well as societal leve

Abstract

What a change in the last three years in the realm of innovation Management! Three years ago, we concluded our book about “Evolution of Innovation Management” (Brem and Viardot 2013) by underlining some essential trends in the management of innovation. Most specifically, we stressed the importance of ambidexterity, which we defined as the ability of companies to realize exploration and exploitation simultaneously in their innovation management process. Some contributions in the book also emphasized the necessity to adopt a more collaborative process with external stakeholders and to move to more “open innovation” (Brau et al. 2013). Other authors underscored the burgeoning importance of platforms (Gawer 2014) and the nurturing of an innovation ecosystem (Thomas and Wind 2013) that federates and coordinates constitutive agents who can innovate and compete. The book had also singled out some key capabilities that innovative companies had to develop in order to be more successful, including the role of communication, culture, leadership, structure, and key performance indicator

Abstract

In recent decades, the developments of new media have revolutionized individuals’ behaviors tremendously. Mobile devices, in particular, have developed an ‘always and everywhere online’ mentality. But what comes next? Recent developments emphasize the rise of a new technology that is termed ‘Wearable Augmented Reality Devices’, where Augmented Reality Smart Glasses (such as Microsoft HoloLens or Google Glass) represent prominent examples. These technologies offer huge innovation potential for companies and societies, which are discussed in this article. By doing so, this paper provides managers and researchers an applied description of the technology and a discussion of how it differs from existing mobile and augmented reality technologies. Finally, insights are given into how these technologies may increase firm value and further change the behaviors of consumers and adopter

Abstract

This edited collection explores how digitalization is changing the management of innovation, and the subsequent implications for the next phases in its development. The authors identify and examine relevant phenomena which are related to the ongoing digital breakthrough in the context of innovation management such as user innovation, crowd sourcing and crowd funding, as well as social media. In line with the constant globalization of innovation, the first volume of Revolution of Innovation Management offers a variety of international perspectives on these topics with illustrations and analysis coming from Asia, America, and Europe.

Abstract

We examine the relationships between entrepreneurs’ values, beliefs and orientations with their firms’ engagement in sustainability-oriented entrepreneurial actions, using a sample of 352 newly established businesses from two Asian countries (Bangladesh and Iran). Our results reveal a dual role of entrepreneurs’ values, beliefs and orientations when taking sustainability-oriented actions. We confirm that individual differences in the set of values, beliefs and orientations can foster or hinder the sustainability-oriented actions across organizations. Our paper contributes to the growing literature of sustainable entrepreneurship, by providing answers for recent calls for better understanding which entrepreneurial ventures engage more in sustainability-oriented action

Abstract

The past two decades have seen a tremendous growth in innovation processes conceived under scarcity conditions with special focus on emerging markets and bottom of the pyramid (BOP) customers. However, evolving literature in this field has unfortunately resulted in a multitude of innovation approaches leading to terminology confusion and fragmented literature. Hence, this study is an attempt to systematically organize and synthesize the research on innovation approaches originated in, for or from emerging markets. An extensive systematic review of the existing literature is carried out to investigate the progress of prior research, and to use the insights to define future research pathways. This review is primarily based on the most frequently used innovation approaches, especially frugal innovation, jugaad, disruptive innovation, Gandhian innovation, catalytic innovation, indigenous innovation, bricolage, blowback innovation, trickle-up innovation, resource-constrained innovation, and BOP innovation. Our analysis finds growing standardization in terminology usage and increasing emphasis on “bottom-up” and structured innovation approaches. De-emphasizing the role of technology transfers and spillovers from the West, the findings exhibit increasing applications of these innovations beyond emerging markets to wider markets. Our research results also shed light on the evolution of the topic and instigate further research explorations in the direction of analyzing the user adoption of these constraint-based innovations and understanding the influence of new technological advancements, such as the Internet, mobile telecommunications, and Web 2.0 on the innovation process, with a special focus on the service industr

Abstract

The key question of this paper is which components have to be considered when transforming an organisation into a learning organisation that attracts and retains the new generation of employees. To answer this question, a conceptual framework is developed, based on an extensive literature review. Additionally, the authors introduce how Adidas, as one of the world's top sports brands, is managing such a transformation. Data were gained from direct observations of the project on-site and expert meetings, as well as from analysis of internal company documents. This results in an extension of the conceptual framework by adding case specific characteristics. Hence, the purpose of this paper is to deliver a model that can be used as an orientation in today's corporate environment to follow all steps of the learning transformation in proper sequence and to consider all relevant elements. One finding is that companies have to be aware of the demands of new learners, which needs to be a leading principle for companies that implement a learning transformation. In subsequent processes, the organisation has to create clear objectives, implement a suitable corporate culture and establish learning spaces, followed by launching and promoting all the various ways of learnin

Abstract

We use international diffusion, deinstitutionalization, and power theory to explain the diffusion and ban of the third-party ownership (TPO) practice in the soccer industry. We use an inductive case study combining archival and interview data to identify the mechanisms that lead to the diffusion, but also to the contestation and deinstitutionalization of TPO. The results suggest that the practice evolution can be explained as a process of layered escalation. Regardless of the economic benefits for the stakeholders that supported the diffusion of the practice, their nested position restricts their access and influence to the dominant stakeholders on the later stages, explaining the deinstitutionalization of an internationally diffused practice.

Abstract

Recent developments in the global economy indicate that new product development (NPD) activities are not limited to any single country; rather, they have spread across nations and cultures. This study aims to increase the understanding of NPD through an intercultural analysis by comparing innovation processes in Germany and China. Our study relates NPD and Hofstede's cultural dimensions by identifying culture-based patterns of similarities and differences between German and Chinese practices related to strategic, organisational, and operational factors. The research subjects are five international companies with research and development sites of the same business section in Germany and China. The findings reveal both culture-dependent and culture-independent factors. Most of the strategic and organisational factors in the two countries are relatively similar because of site-spanning corporate cultures, but there are differences between the countries with regard to idea generation and managemen

Abstract

Crisis situations are special situations during the development process. They are characterized by time and handling pressure. Therefore, it is necessary to identify and apply a methodical problem solving approach to overcome these situations. Due to their prescriptive character, problem solving approaches reduce the problem identification time and increase the efficiency of crisis management. The goal of this research is to identify methods which are able to support the crisis management process successfully. Therefore, a literature-based analysis of developing methods, especially TRIZ is conducted. Regarding the main steps of problem solving, evaluation criteria are identified and considered. This bases on standardized method descriptions and is evaluated by criteria regarding training effort, usability, time, quality of solutions, required resources, and effort for application by 12 TRIZ users and experts. Result of this research is a situation specific approach for crises. The evaluated methods are clustered considering the main steps of problem solving. Results indicate that TRIZ methods support especially the idea generation process with structured and detailed approache

Abstract

A rich body of literature has emerged from research on Western new product development (NPD). However, the impact of country- and culture-specific influences on these processes has not been examined in detail yet. Hence, this study identifies the differences in NPD practices between the Indian and German research and development (R&D) subsidiaries of multinational companies (MNCs). Data have been generated by interviews with R&D executives in both countries across multiple cases. The study samples strategic, organisational, and operational aspects and indicates differences in process coordination, reward systems, NPD creativity techniques, market orientation, and the average age of NPD teams. Other aspects, such as top management support, the use of structured NPD processes, and the use of heterogeneous NPD teams, show no substantial differences between the countries. Our findings suggest that, while some aspects are universally applicable across cultural frontiers, Western companies must understand India's different expectations regarding NPD and adjust their practices accordingly. A rich body of literature has emerged from research on Western new product development (NPD). However, the impact of country- and culture-specific influences on these processes has not been examined in detail yet. Hence, this study identifies the differences in NPD practices between the Indian and German research and development (R&D) subsidiaries of multinational companies (MNCs). Data have been generated by interviews with R&D executives in both countries across multiple cases. The study samples strategic, organisational, and operational aspects and indicates differences in process coordination, reward systems, NPD creativity techniques, market orientation, and the average age of NPD teams. Other aspects, such as top management support, the use of structured NPD processes, and the use of heterogeneous NPD teams, show no substantial differences between the countries. Our findings suggest that, while some aspects are universally applicable across cultural frontiers, Western companies must understand India's different expectations regarding NPD and adjust their practices accordingly. Read More: http://www.worldscientific.com/doi/abs/10.1142/S1363919615500103

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to provide the systematic procedures of case study research. A robust case study protocol in the context of societal and ethical issues with a relevant guidelines will set to show how data should collect, present, and analyze. This paper takes in particular the context of Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) as the phenomenon and investigates on how to apply the methodologies, which could assist us to identify the boundaries between societal and ethical issues and the emerging ICTs. As such, to interpret the collected data and build theory inductively, to have an excellent basis for further qualitative research within RRI context, systematic procedures are needed to conduct. This paper uses a holistic view to the literature for providing guidelines for conducting and reporting case study research for RRI context. It defines the information that needs to be gathered from the cases, the way this data is to be analyzed and the processes of reflections to be undertaken. Checklists for conducting the case study protocol are linked to each step of systematic procedures and applicable for researchers, ICT managers, reviewers, and readers to allow them taking account of societal and ethical aspects, in particular RRI principles in emerging ICTs in a proper wa

Abstract

Different studies have evaluated the factors that lead to the adoption of new online services in general and particularly for Location-Based Services adoption (LBS), as this is seen as a key application for smartphones. Recently, several security threats and the disclosure of extensive personal data have raised the question, if location data are considered as sensitive data by users. Thus, we use two privacy concern models, namely Concern for Information Privacy (CFIP) and Internet Users’ Information Privacy Concerns (IUIPC) to find out. Our sample comprises of 235 individuals between 18 and 34 years (Generation C) from Germany. The results of this study indicate that the second-order factor IUIPC showed better fit for the underlying data than CFIP did. Overall privacy concerns have been found to have an impact on behavioral intentions of users for LBS adoption. Furthermore, other risk dimensions may play a role in determining usage intention, which should be analyzed by further researc

Abstract

In the past, the agency theory was used to analyse problems within supply networks. This theory suggested different solutions to bring about a reduction in information asymmetries. However, doing so in the future will prove to be difficult owing to the increasing complexity of supply networks. Moreover, along with the fourth industrial revolution - industry 4.0 - new technologies such as cyber physical systems are fast gaining popularity. Hence, based on the analysis of relevant literature, we further develop the supply chain committee model, developed by Kaluza et al. (2003) to demonstrate how upcoming technologies can be integrated. This may help manage agency problems, despite the growth in complexity in supply network

Abstract

In recent years, Prediction Markets gained growing interest as a forecasting tool among researchers as well as practitioners, which resulted in an increasing number of publications. In order to track the latest development of research, comprising the extent and focus of research, this article provides a comprehensive review and classification of the literature related to the topic of Prediction Markets. Overall, 304 relevant articles, published in the timeframe from 2007 through 2013, were identified and assigned to a herein presented classification scheme, differentiating between descriptive works, articles of theoretical nature, application-oriented studies and articles dealing with the topic of law and policy. The analysis of the research results reveals that more than half of the literature pool deals with the application and actual function tests of Prediction Markets. The results are further compared to two previous works published by Zhao, Wagner and Chen (2008) and Tziralis and Tatsiopoulos (2007a). The article concludes with an extended bibliography section and may therefore serve as a guidance and basis for further researc

Abstract

While global intellectual property trends show a stable rate of worldwide patent applications during the last five years, patent applications in emerging economies strongly increased within the same period. Unless the increasing number of applications in emerging economies, the indigenous legal systems in those countries are mostly not able to effectively protect intellectual property rights of multinational companies. Still, we observe the phenomenon of a strongly increasing rate of technology patenting in countries with weak appropriability regimes. This article studies patenting strategy archetypes of the world’s largest patent applicants using the case of China as an empirical context. Using Questel’s professional patent search application Orbit, we build a unique data set of the world’s top patent applicants combining data from the World Intellectual Property Organization and the State Intellectual Property Office of China comprising data of about 620.000 patents. Referring to the study of Keupp et al. (2012), we extend previous qualitative studies on patenting strategy archetypes by adding quantitative evidence from a data set of the world’s largest intellectual property owners. Model based clustering reveals the existence of five patent strategy archetypes of companies patenting in economies with weak appropriability regime

Abstract

A rich body of literature has emerged from research on Western new product development (NPD). However, the impact of country- and culture-specific influences on these processes has not been examined in detail yet. Hence, this study identifies the differences in NPD practices between the Indian and German research and development (R&D) subsidiaries of multinational companies (MNCs). Data have been generated by interviews with R&D executives in both countries across multiple cases. The study samples strategic, organisational, and operational aspects and indicates differences in process coordination, reward systems, NPD creativity techniques, market orientation, and the average age of NPD teams. Other aspects, such as top management support, the use of structured NPD processes, and the use of heterogeneous NPD teams, show no substantial differences between the countries. Our findings suggest that, while some aspects are universally applicable across cultural frontiers, Western companies must understand India's different expectations regarding NPD and adjust their practices accordingl

Abstract

Abstract— This study explores the relationship between Social Media engagement and the activation of the consumer's purchase process. Following a consumer behavior perspective we study how the new communication paradigm of the Web 2.0 has change the first stage of the e-commerce purchase process, the problem recognition. We use the case of a smartphone purchase, to explore how differences in Social Media (Facebook) engagement would help describe existent differences between the consumer's triggers for problem recognition. The results suggest that there's a relationship between the level of engagement and the consumer's state that influences the activation of the problem recognition. Implications for e-commerce and social media managers are discussed.

Abstract

In times of changing business models and international competition, there is an inherent need for companies to foster and develop mechanisms to absorb new technologies for innovative products and processes effectively. Such considerations lead to the strategic make-or-buy decision which was the subject of our research. This quantitative explanatory study in the German industry shows in particular that companies base their decision for internal or external sourcing on multiple weighted criteria with scoring models and, even more common, with portfolio matrices. These results are in common with recent research, however, other results are surprising, e.g. just a small minority of companies involve people from controlling and legal departments in these decision processes. The paper also reveals differences between companies with different timing and competitive strategies, which are in line with the proposed characteristics of these strategic focuses in literature. Implications for theory and practice are given to foster future research in this area. In times of changing business models and international competition, there is an inherent need for companies to foster and develop mechanisms to absorb new technologies for innovative products and processes effectively. Such considerations lead to the strategic make-or-buy decision which was the subject of our research. This quantitative explanatory study in the German industry shows in particular that companies base their decision for internal or external sourcing on multiple weighted criteria with scoring models and, even more common, with portfolio matrices. These results are in common with recent research, however, other results are surprising, e.g. just a small minority of companies involve people from controlling and legal departments in these decision processes. The paper also reveals differences between companies with different timing and competitive strategies, which are in line with the proposed characteristics of these strategic focuses in literature. Implications for theory and practice are given to foster future research in this area. Read More: http://www.worldscientific.com/doi/abs/10.1142/S0219877014500163

Abstract

Internationalization of R&D is an upcoming research topic. However, as far as group-internal resource exchanges between affiliates are concerned, research is scarce. Therefore, the present study shed light on the discussion in literature by detecting obstacles and accelerators regarding the opening of R&D to affiliated companies in the same business group. The challenges are analysed for affiliates in order to engage themselves in group-internal markets, for instance to avoid bottlenecks in the product development or to improve their technological knowledge. To research this phenomenon, a case study is accomplished by investigating a Multinational company whose affiliates are self-reliant and horizontally diversified. Mixed methods are applied by having structured depth interviews with the responsible R&D managers as well as by sending a survey out to associated project managers. The study indicates that the organizational complexity, infrastructures within the business group and the impact of external market structures play an essential role for the usage and effectiveness of group-internal markets. Hence, the insights offer valuable clues why internal markets have advantages and disadvantages for affiliates under certai circumstances, i.e. in matters of communication, or why collaboration efforts introduced by the business group management do not yield result

Abstract

This paper gives a comprehensive overview of the commonly used terms jugaad, frugal innovation, frugal engineering, constraint-based innovation, Gandhian innovation, catalytic innovation, grassroots innovation, indigenous innovation, and reverse innovation. Based on that, a conceptual framework is introduced consisting of three core dimensions: sophistication, sustainability, and emerging market orientation. On the basis of these dimensions, analogies and distinctions between the terms are identified and general tendencies are explored such as the increasing importance of sustainability in social and ecological context or the growing interest of developed market firms in approaches from emerging markets. Hence, the presented framework supports further research in new paradigms for research and development (R&D) in developed market firms (DMFs), particularly in relation to emerging markets. This framework enables scholars to compare concepts from developed and emerging markets, to address studies specifically by using consistent terms, and to advance research into the concepts according their characterizatio

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The fields of frugal and reverse innovation as well as sustainability and its management have received tremendous interest in recent times. However, there is little literature on how both fields are related to each other. Hence, this paper gives an overview of research in both areas and provides a view of the relationship between frugal and reverse innovation, sustainability management and performance constructs. The link between frugal and reverse innovation on the one hand and sustainability performance on the other hand is established through a differentiated perspective on dimensions representing different fields of sustainability management, i.e. the sustainability of resources used in value creation, the sustainability of the actual value creation processes, and the sustainability of the outcomes of value creation processes. Moreover, we also argue for a positive link between the three dimensions of sustainability management and a company’s market performance.

Abstract

From research on Western new product development (NPD) practices a rich body of literature has emerged. However, the impact of country specific and cultural influences has not been examined yet. This study is a first attempt to identify differences in NPD practices between R&D subsidiaries in Germany, China and India within multinational companies. Data has been generated by qualitative interviews with Research and Development (R&D) executives in those countries across multiple cases. The study samples strategic, organizational and operational aspects indicates definite differences in process coordination, rewarding systems, the use of creativity techniques in NPD, market orientation and the average age of NPD teams. Other aspects like strategic targets, the management involvement, etc. show rather slight differences across the countries. Hence, findings suggest that while some aspects are universally applicable across cultural frontiers, Western companies have to understand different expectations regarding NPD in India and China by adjusting practices accordingl

Abstract

As the world is shifting its attention towards emerging giants like India and China, the big Western multinational companies MNCs are trying to get their foothold in this market. Instead of customizing the western world products to local markets, these companies are increasingly developing products from scratch for the local consumers. They are engaging in frugal & reverse innovations, by developing affordable products and solutions with "good enough" functionalities and minimum frills, and later on, introducing them to the developed countries. This paper focuses on how multinational corporations MNCs are establishing themselves in the emerging markets and their innovation strategies. The paper initially differentiates between frugal & reverse innovation and goes on to analyze the practices of a German MNC. The paper concludes that end to end localization, core value identification & a healthy portfolio mix of both kinds of innovations is necessary for success in emerging markets. © 2012 IEEE.

Abstract

The success of firms in emerging economies like India and China can be generally attributed to their low-cost R&D and manufacturing capabilities, scalable resource pool, and rapidly growing domestic demand. However, in recent times, emerging economy firms have been employing new innovation strategies to morph into higher orbits and drive profitable business growth. Increasingly, many emerging economy firms are deploying their earnings to invest in R&D and to acquire advanced technologies from developed country firms to boost their innovative capability and to drive their global business competitiveness. Drawing on recent literature on international technology transfer, this paper presents a case study of an Indian MNC to provide theoretical and practical insights into the dynamics and process of technology transfer. Lacking strategic orientation is identified as a main missing factor in recent literatur

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Innovations play an ever-increasing role in companies hoping to gain and sustain a competitive advantage. However, certain technological innovations are not always perceived as something desirable and are often problematic. One problem for managers is the resistance of different kinds of stakeholders, both internally and externally. But also new structures, such as multi-sector and open innovations, pose problems. The goal of this chapter is to provide managers with insights on how to successfully launch new innovations and overcome such resistance. The chapter is based on a special issue of the International Journal of Technology Marketing devoted to the subjec

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Developing new innovative products in the automotive industry means investing huge sums in advance, as one does not know if the product will be successful on the market after launch. Hence, companies are interested in knowing and measuring the critical success drivers within the development steps. The paper discusses the results of a qualitative meta-analysis of 16 empirical studies on New Product Development (NPD) success, which was carried out to gain deeper insight into these success drivers. Furthermore, based on the identification of three main dimensions (development process, resources and strategy), an explorative study in the German automotive industry shows that the findings are confirmed in practice as well. However, the results also indicate that there is still a gap between knowledge about practical relevance of those dimensions and the systematic assessment of these in the process. The study shows interesting approaches of best practices, such as the assessment of product advantage in combination with scenario analysis or the identification of appropriate innovations.

Abstract

For decades, suggestion systems have been used to include employees in the innovation process. However, in order to gather superior ideas, integrating external stakeholders is critical to the innovation success. Within this paper, the authors derive a sophisticated model of an integrated idea management, which is examined with an explorative analysis. The results confirm the relevance of an integrated idea management, particularly the clear tendency towards an integration of external groups. Basically, this integration occurs directly through individual functional divisions such as purchasing, development and sales. Here especially, differentiating potentials are offered for emerging technology ventures. But it is important that idea and innovation management are integrated during the building-up stage while internal and external network structures are still manageable and often consist of the managers' and founders' personal contacts. Hence, the earlier an integrated idea management is implemented, the greater is the probability of high numbers of successful innovations.