Examining the effect of functional diversity on organizational team innovationAbiew, Gladys Esinu; Okyere-Kwakye, Eugene; Ellis, Florence Yaa Akyia
2022 International Journal of Innovation Science
doi: 10.1108/ijis-02-2021-0027
Underpinned by the information processing theory, this study aims to investigate the relationship between functional diversity and team innovation by examining the moderating role of some selected cultural dimensions (power distance, uncertainty avoidance and masculinity-femininity) in the relationship between functional diversity and innovation.Design/methodology/approachA quantitative research method was used using a structured questionnaire as a tool to collect data from 251 respondents drawn from research institutions in Ghana. Data was analysed using simple regression and hierarchical multiple regression. In addition, a structural equation model was used to conduct confirmatory factor analyses to examine whether the variables in the hypothesized model for the study captured distinct constructs that the variables were designed to measure.FindingsThe study revealed that functional diversity was positively related to team innovation. The study also found that functionally diverse groups are more innovative when they exhibit low uncertainty avoidance, femininity and low power distance.Practical implicationsThese findings suggest that practices such as team communication, honesty, respect and trust would foster team unity and commitment, which would enable members to share diverse expertise towards the creation and execution of new ideas and improvement of productivity in the country.Originality/valueThe study examined the relationship between functional diversity and team innovation by examining the moderating role of some selected cultural dimensions (power distance, uncertainty avoidance and masculinity-femininity) in the relationship between functional diversity and innovation.
A study on socio-aesthetic value accentuation and marketing performance: an SDL perspectiveFerdinand, Augusty Tae; Zuhroh, Siti
2022 International Journal of Innovation Science
doi: 10.1108/ijis-11-2020-0255
This study aims to build a conceptual model based on socio-aesthetic value accentuation (SAVA), positional advantage and sales-network power as the bridging process for enhancing sales performance in the context of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).Design/methodology/approachA structural study methodology is adopted. In all, 200 owner– managers of SMEs were involved in the study and voluntarily spent time for an interview in the data collection process. To test the model and hypotheses, the authors used the analysis moment structure structural equation modeling (AMOS SEM structural model software to analyse 178 usable questionnaires.FindingsThe results demonstrate three strategic pathways to enhanced sales performance, namely, anchors on SAVA, positional advantage and sales-network power and are the basis of the separate contribution of our proposed strategic equilateral triangle model for conceptual bridging.Research limitations/implicationsThe rejection of the hypothesis provides a room for further research. The sample frame of Indonesian SMEs limits the generalisation power of SAVA concept, which then calls for replication to achieve a broader generalisation. The theoretical implication of the study relates to strengthening the applicability of the theory of service-dominant logic in marketing studies.Practical implicationsThere are several practical managerial implications for SME entrepreneurs seeking to improve sales performance.Originality/valueThis pioneering study explains the role of SAVA – positional advantage and sales-network power to bridge innovation capability and enhanced marketing performance.
Barriers to radical innovation in research institutions in ChinaYang, Jianhua; Al-Sayed, Rafif
2022 International Journal of Innovation Science
doi: 10.1108/ijis-04-2021-0075
This study aims to develop a better understanding of radical innovation performance and proposes a comprehensive and theoretical model of the barriers impeding radical innovation from the perspective of researchers working in research institutions in China. Both quantitative and qualitative techniques were used to test the hypotheses regarding barriers to radical innovation and the model proposed in this research.Design/methodology/approachThe data was collected through questionnaires and semi-structured interviews with researchers from different research institutions across several cities in China. Next, the data was analyzed by deploying the structural equation modeling technique and calculating the statistical significance of correlations, regression and path coefficients among the latent variables.FindingsThe results indicated the major barriers impeding radical innovation in Chinese research institutes. Based on these findings, suggested policies, regulations and business models are put forward that can promote radical innovation in these institutes through increasing research freedom, enhancing organizational flexibility, attracting talented researchers and expanding research collaboration.Originality/valueThe research proposes a comprehensive and theoretical model of the barriers impeding radical innovation from the perspective of researchers working in research institutions in China.
Toward collaborative networking among innovation laboratories: a conceptual frameworkMemon, Atia Bano; Meyer, Kyrill; Tunio, Muhammad Nawaz
2022 International Journal of Innovation Science
doi: 10.1108/ijis-04-2021-0069
The purpose of this paper is to suggest a conceptual framework of collaborative networking among structurally and functionally varying types of Innovation Laboratories, which will enable them to leverage upon diverse competencies of each other and thereby facilitate their clients (business organizations) throughout the innovation process.Design/methodology/approachThe conceptual framework proposed herein is oriented around design science research, whereby the important constructs underpinning the development of framework are identified from existing literature. The framework is based upon two constructs, service-based categorization of extant Innovation Laboratories, and concepts of horizontal and vertical modes of inter-InnoLab collaboration (collaboration among Innovation Laboratories). The framework is subsequently developed in iterations based on experts’ views and discussions.FindingsThe conceptual framework presents eight different opportunities of interconnection among Innovation Laboratories including the four horizontal collaboration possibilities as network of mentors, network of process intermediaries, network of resource providers and network of network coordinators which are followed by four subsequent vertical collaboration possibilities among these horizontal collaboration networks. The proposed collaborative network of Innovation Laboratories enables undertaking of complete innovation process with four possible entry and four possible exit points for business organizations.Originality/valueThe conceptual framework proposed herein is first of its kind to suggest a worldwide collaborative networking among Innovation Laboratories. The applicability and usefulness of the framework is supported by the existing ad hoc type individual collaborative activities being exercised by different kinds of Innovation Laboratories as reported by Innovation Laboratory facilitators and observed in practical field.
The development trend and academic patent technology network of laser and optical technologiesChang, Shu-Hao
2022 International Journal of Innovation Science
doi: 10.1108/ijis-02-2021-0044
The application of laser and optical technologies in the industry is wide and extensive; the development and application of laser and optical technologies have become a promising research domain. However, most existing studies have focused on the technical aspects or the application aspects; these studies have not highlighted the technology distribution and application development of laser and optical technologies from the big picture. Additionally, the manner in which the research and development (R&D) results of universities correspond to the needs of enterprises and industry has become a topic of concern for the public. Therefore, this study aims to adopt the academic patents as the basis for analysis and to construct a laser and optical technology network.Design/methodology/approachTherefore, in the current study, the researchers have analyzed relevant academic patent technology networks, using academic patents of laser and optical technologies as a basis of analysis.FindingsThe study results indicated that the key technologies mainly lie in nanostructures, metal-working, material analysis and semiconductor devices. Additionally, these technologies are mainly applied in industries, such as optics, medical technology, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and organic fine chemistry; this indicated that a large proportion of academia’s R&D outcomes are applied in these industries.Originality/valueIn this study, the researchers have constructed a technology network model to explore the technical development direction of laser and optical technologies; the results of the current study could serve as a reference for universities and industry for allocation of R&D resources.
The impact of customer knowledge management, TQM and marketing capabilities on product innovation performance of Malaysian SMEs: an empirical studyYusr, Maha Mohammed; Mokhtar, Sany Sanuri Mohd; Perumal, Selvan; Salimon, Maruf Gbadebo
2022 International Journal of Innovation Science
doi: 10.1108/ijis-03-2021-0053
Several strategies and processes can help companies to enhance the success rate of new products. This study aims to identify a few strategies for that purpose represented by total quality management (TQM) practices, building knowledge and capabilities. Moreover, the current paper discusses the role of applying TQM practices and customer knowledge management in developing the marketing capabilities of the organizations.Design/methodology/approachThis study is a quantitative approach where the data collected from 141 manufacturing small and medium enterprises operating in Malaysia and partial least squares technique was used to test the hypotheses.FindingsThe findings of this study highly support all the proposed hypotheses and establish marketing capabilities as a facilitator in the relationship between TQM practices, customer knowledge management and product innovation performance. However, customer knowledge management and TQM were found not to have an impact on product innovation performance.Originality/valueThe introduced model contributes to enhancing the understanding of the impact of customer knowledge on the success of product innovation performance. The model further includes TQM as a process that helps the organization get customer satisfaction information. The incorporation of these two processes will support the organization’s capabilities in the innovation field.
Imperatives for open innovation in times of COVID-19Jha, Srirang Kumar
2022 International Journal of Innovation Science
doi: 10.1108/ijis-02-2021-0030
COVID-19 pandemic has triggered an existential crisis amongst the companies, communities, organisations and institutions across the globe. People are facing unusual scenarios characterized by prolonged lockdowns, changes in the work from home compulsions, job losses, disruptions in the supply-chain networks, the slowdown in economies, scarcity of essential commodities and unavailability of medical services due to burgeoning numbers of positive cases with COVID-19. Death rates due to COVID-19 are alarmingly high, which complicate matters all the more. The purpose of this paper is to explore how open innovation can enable the suffering communities overcome the crisis of such magnitude.Design/methodology/approachThis paper is based on general understanding and academic insight emerging out of the millennial crisis like COVID-19 that the author witnessed with close quarters.FindingsThe people’s suffering due to COVID-19 pandemic is terrific, almost unparalleled in the history of civilisation. However, the pandemic has also galvanised the people all over the world to come together and work towards collaborative problem solving and open innovation. As such, COVID-19 has presented an unprecedented situation which warrants extra-ordinary responses. The crisis has inadvertently made room for open innovation so that human miseries can be successfully mitigated by leveraging collective wisdom and traditional knowledge of the communities who are more than willing today to collaborate and make a difference in the solutions space in true sense.Originality/valueThis paper provides fresh insights on the rationale and efficacy of open innovations in overcoming the crisis like a pandemic. Companies across the globe have also come forward to work together with anyone, including their competitors, to explore immediate and practical solutions to the problems caused by COVID-19. The paper also provides a framework of developing as well as strengthening an ecosystem for open innovations in the world inflicted by unique civilizational crisis. The only way to get out of the current mess is to join hands for collaborations and collectively find innovative solutions to the issues plaguing humanity today.
Causal interactions among essential factors of Industry 4.0 innovation using DEMATEL technique in manufacturing industriesNimawat, Dheeraj; Gidwani, B.D.
2022 International Journal of Innovation Science
doi: 10.1108/ijis-08-2020-0125
Industry 4.0 implementation appears to have a far-reaching effect on consumer demand. Research findings on market prospects and implementation status are also rare. The purpose of this study is to address the essential factors regarding the implementation status of the Indian manufacturing industries that would entail a complete implementation of the Industry 4.0 innovations in developing nations and execute them entirely to achieve related benefits.Design/methodology/approachThe primary factors impacting the Industry 4.0 implementation status recognized a focus on comprehensive literature analysis and its validation by recommendations from 12 specialists with substantial expertise in Industry 4.0. The DEMATEL technique has been implemented in this analysis to examine the structure of causal interactions among the recognized essential factors.FindingsFrom a literature analysis and recommendations from specialists, 16 essential factors are recognized. Using DEMATEL techniques, ranking of the essential factors has been obtained according to their importance. Moreover, the findings show the cause and effect interactions among essential factors in the perspective of Industry 4.0 innovations in Indian manufacturing industries.Research limitations/implicationsThe current research is restricted to Indian manufacturing industries (developing nations).Practical implicationsIt will help industries move towards an Industry 4.0 implementation by knowing their status. A research model is being developed, including specific vital features of Industry 4.0 as indicators for its implementation. Nevertheless, few are renowned for how industries, especially in developing nations, perceive the possible effects of Industry 4.0 technological innovations and industrial efficiency.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, the present research contributes first to be carried out regarding the model of information about the nature of causal interactions among the recognized essential factors of Industry 4.0 in the surrounding of Indian manufacturing industries to address the implementation status of Industry 4.0 innovations using DEMATEL technique.
Understanding influence of supply chain collaboration on innovation-based market performanceBaig, Hina; Ahmed, Waqar; Najmi , Arsalan
2022 International Journal of Innovation Science
doi: 10.1108/ijis-03-2021-0054
In today’s world, supply chain collaboration becomes an essential source of attaining competitive advantage to make the position in the global market in terms of information, expertise and risk-sharing abilities. Hence the purpose of this study is to highlight the understanding of the value and importance of collaboration in innovation and to strategically implement such steps to achieve supply chain collaboration capabilities.Design/methodology/approachThe data of 269 respondents were collected from supply chain professionals belong to the different industrial sectors in Karachi, Pakistan. The data was analyzed by using structural equation modeling.FindingsThis study finds that supplier collaboration brings radical as well as incremental innovation. In contrast, internal collaboration brings incremental innovation, whereas collaboration with customers has an insignificant impact on incremental innovation. Furthermore, both types of innovations have a positive and significant influence on market performance.Research limitations/implicationsThis study's outcome improves the understanding of the types of innovation enhanced by each construct of collaboration. Supply chain experts or managers are motivated to implement innovation to improve the firm's overall market performance.Originality/valueThis research will contribute to the literature by sharing the understanding of the relationship among supply chain members as they collaborate for innovation purposes. All supply chains develop a sustainable competitive advantage in market performance.