Innovation in infrastructure projects: an Australian perspective. Issue 2 (6th June 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Maghsoudi, Soroush; Duffield, Colin; Wilson, David
• Is Part Of: International journal of innovation science. Volume 8:Issue 2(2016)
• Page Start: 113
• Page End: 132
• Publication Date: 2016-06-06
• Subjects: Innovation; Creative thinking -- Periodicals; Creative ability -- Periodicals; Creative ability in business -- Periodicals; Creative ability in technology -- Periodicals; Technological innovations -- Periodicals; 153.35
• DOI: 10.1108/IJIS-06-2016-008
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1757-2223

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: Unlike manufacturing and research and developments, major infrastructure projects rarely emphasize or drive their objectives on the basis of innovation. This is in part because of a risk-averse culture, yet conceivably great benefits and opportunities are being lost because of this behavior. Design/methodology/approach: The case for focusing on innovation in infrastructure projects is that the reasons driving innovation are not fully understood, and this impedes the effective implementation of lessons learned for the numerous innovative projects into practice more generally. The purpose of this study was to discover how innovation is produced and captured in major infrastructure projects in Australia and to understand how innovation may be replicated for future projects through refinement of design, project management, finance and procurement. Findings: Engineering and project managers may find this paper helpful to better understand how innovation might happen in infrastructure projects and what different forms it can take. Originality/value: The findings of this study demonstrate that people and culture drive consistent successful infrastructure outcomes more than simply the development of new products or processes.