Strategic Management of Innovation

Table of Contents

1. Frontmatter

2. Chapter 1. Putting Innovation into Perspective

   Duha AlSanad, Soufiane Kherrazi, Karim Saïd

   Abstract

   Innovation has emerged as a crucial factor for growth and even survival in today’s rapidly changing world. The growing importance of innovation has led to an increase in academic literature focusing on the subject. However, despite the growing interest, innovation remains a complex and often misunderstood concept. This arises from the overuse and misuse of the term as a buzzword. To address these issues, this chapter aims to simplify and clarify the concept of innovation by examining various definitions in current literature. Through the examination, we identified six key elements that characterize the term: novelty, means, action, context, form, and outcome. Furthermore, we explore foundational aspects of the innovation concept, such as its models, processes, and types. This comprehensive review seeks to generate a common understanding of innovation, enabling future studies to build upon a more solid foundation.

3. Chapter 2. Designing an Innovation Strategy

   Duha AlSanad, Soufiane Kherrazi, Karim Saïd

   Abstract

   Innovation strategy has garnered significant interest among researchers and practitioners. Despite the extensive body of research, there remains a need for further exploration into the best practices for devising effective innovation strategies. This chapter endeavors to bridge this gap by pursuing the following objectives: (a) critically reviewing the existing literature on innovation strategy, (b) identifying and analyzing evidence-based best practices for formulating and implementing innovation strategies, (c) and creating a practical framework that assists organizations in designing and executing innovation strategies tailored to their specific challenges and requirements.

4. Chapter 3. Designing and Implementing Sustainable National Innovation Ecosystems: Roles, Components, and Critical Factors

   Duha AlSanad, Soufiane Kherrazi, Karim Saïd

   Abstract

   This chapter introduces the concept of sustainable innovation ecosystems, highlighting its meaning and historical development. It explores the main actors of these ecosystems, and also how they fuel long-term sustainable economic growth. Drawing on previous works of influential authors and scholars, the chapter identifies key factors that enable a thriving innovation ecosystem. Putting these insights into practices, the chapter concludes with practical guidelines to design and manage sustainable innovation ecosystems.

5. Chapter 4. The Influence and Implications of Public Sponsorship in Europe

   Duha AlSanad, Soufiane Kherrazi, Karim Saïd

   Abstract

   This chapter examines the role of public sponsorship in shaping national innovation systems through Research and Development (R&D) funding. It highlights how governments, particularly in Europe, the USA, and Japan, use public policies and programs to foster research, innovation, and collaboration. The chapter focuses on EU-funded R&D consortia under Horizon 2020 and Eureka (2014–2020), revealing their governance, performance, and broader implications for European research and innovation ecosystems.

6. Chapter 5. Leveraging Innovation Management Tools

   Duha AlSanad, Soufiane Kherrazi, Karim Saïd

   Abstract

   Innovation management is pivotal in today’s dynamic business landscape, enabling organizations to seize opportunities by fostering creativity and introducing novel concepts, processes, and products. Since the trajectory of innovation management is complicated covering various organizational structures and contextual sceneries, it includes an array of tools and techniques. This Chapter examines innovation management through the lens of the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle, a widely recognized framework for systematically addressing challenges and driving transformations. By integrating innovation management tools and techniques across the PDCA stages, this chapter provides a structured approach to assess innovation capabilities, identify opportunities, implement initiatives, monitor performance, and refine strategies.

7. Chapter 6. Exploring Control Dynamics in Collaborative Ventures

   Duha AlSanad, Soufiane Kherrazi, Karim Saïd

   Abstract

   This chapter aims to discuss the relevance of control, initially stemming from the management accounting field, and its transition into the realm of innovation strategic management. It examines control perspectives, shifting from the intra-organizational level (cf. closed innovation paradigm) to the inter-organizational level (cf. open innovation paradigm), highlighting changes in dynamics and complexity. By analysing these elements, the chapter provides insights into the control mechanisms shaping innovation processes and influencing their success, while underscoring the increasing importance of effective collaboration management in the contemporary innovation landscape. Effective management control practices in collaborative innovation are discussed in detail requires strategically balancing various control elements to foster successful collaborations and achieve desired innovation outcomes.

8. Chapter 7. Effective Innovation Control Mechanisms: Evidence from EU R&D Collaboration

   Duha AlSanad, Soufiane Kherrazi, Karim Saïd

   Abstract

   This chapter delves into the issue of innovation control within R&D collaborations. It explores a range of management control mechanisms at the organizational, economic, and social levels, as well as control approaches to manage relational and transactional risks that R&D collaborations are likely to encounter. R&D collaborations have emerged as a strategic means to support firms’ R&D goals as they can no longer rely solely on their internal innovation capabilities. In this regard, Empirical insights drawn from a survey of EU firms (+200) engaged in collaborative R&D projects are presented and discussed.

9. Chapter 8. Managing Innovation in the Age of AI

   Duha AlSanad, Soufiane Kherrazi, Karim Saïd

   Abstract

   The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into strategic innovation management is transforming organizational operations and enhancing competitiveness in today’s dynamic environment. This chapter explores both aspects of AI: innovation driven by AI and the application of AI to foster innovation. By reviewing current research, we offer a comprehensive perspective on effectively managing innovation in the age of AI. We also present practical case studies of AI-driven innovations and highlight key challenges and issues related to the application of AI in innovation processes. The chapter concludes with a discussion on the implications for both theory and practice.

10. Backmatter