6. FOCISS for an Effective Sustainable Innovation Strategy

Sustainable development will be a major driving force for future developments in businesses. Most companies are fully aware of that, but find it difficult to translate this insight into concrete actions. We have observed that companies, in particular small and medium enterprises, find it difficult to determine how sustainability can affect their business. The FOCISS (Focussing Innovation Strategy for Sustainability) approach offers that assistance. We have developed FOCISS in collaboration with enterprises from diverse industry sectors. By this approach the ‘agenda’ and the conditions for sustainable business of a company, in its specific situation, can be established. Stepwise, key areas of relevance, major issues therein and finally the most promising innovations, in view of economics and sustainability, are assessed. The approach uses primarily the views and expertise of the people working in the company, which improves the exchange of views and information and strengthens the collaboration on such issues through all parts of the company. A clear focus on sustainability can also improve the basis for collaboration with outside stakeholders. It strengthens the commitment and ambition to integrate sustainability in business strategy.