Best innovators develop a point of view on the future and a roadmap on how to get there. Issue 2 (16th March 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Engel, Kai; Dirlea, Voletka; Dyer, Stephen; Graff, Jochen
• Is Part Of: Strategy and leadership. Volume 43:Issue 2(2015)
• Page Start: 15
• Page End: 22
• Publication Date: 2015-03-16
• Subjects: Continuous innovation -- Innovation portfolio management -- Best innovation practices -- Best innovator competition -- Defined customer need; Industrial management -- Periodicals; Strategic planning -- Periodicals; 658.4012
• DOI: 10.1108/SL-01-2015-0004
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1087-8572

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: – The authors have collected key insights from the Best Innovator competition, launched in 2003. Six early-stage practices are critical. Design/methodology/approach: – The Best Innovator competition, annual benchmarking against the best in innovation management, focuses on the how-to of innovation and examines what leading companies are doing to achieve better yield with their innovation strategies. Findings: – By studying the competition winners, the researchers found a strong correlation between specific innovation management practices and sustainable, profitable growth. Practical implications: – Best Innovators establish explicit expectations for making the business case for innovation. They name a specific set of deliverables to which they are committed. Originality/value: – The article offers specific guidelines for setting the stage for continuous innovation that results in profitable offerings and services.