Abstract This paper uses the concepts of means of innovation and modes of innovation to introduce an alternative approach to the understanding of the evolution of the South African system of innovation. Modes of innovation are defined in terms of ownership and control patterns of the means of innovation, as well as the role played by human capital. The relationship between ideology and modes of innovation is briefly examined. This paper lays the basis for an alternative approach to the analysis of the transition of South Africa’s economic structure from apartheid to democracy and of the rifts and continuities in that transition.

The capacity to innovate is commonly regarded as a key response mechanism, a critical organisational competence for success, even survival, for organisations operating in turbulent conditions. Understanding how innovation works, therefore, continues to be a significant agenda item for many researchers. Innovation, however, is generally recognised to be a complex and multi-dimensional phenomenon. Classificatory approaches have been used to provide conceptual frameworks for descriptive purposes and to help better understand innovation. Further, by the facility of pattern recognition, classificatory approaches also attempt to elevate theorising from the specific and contextual to something more abstract and generalisable. Over the last 50 years researchers have sought to explain variance in innovation activities and processes, adoption and diffusion patterns and, performance outcomes in terms of these different ‘types’ of innovation. Three generic approaches to the classification of innovations can be found in the literature (innovation newness, area of focus and attributes). In this research, several limitations of these approaches are identified: narrow specification, inconsistent application across studies and, indistinct and permeable boundaries between categories. One consequence is that opportunities for cumulative and comparative research are hampered. The assumption underpinning this research is that, given artefact multidimensionality, it is not unreasonable to assume that we might expect to see the diversity of attributes being patterned into distinct configurations. In a mixed-method study, comprising of three empirical phases, the innovation classification problem is addressed through the design, testing and application of a multi-dimensional framework of innovation, predicated on perceived attributes. Phase I is characterised by an iterative process, in which data from four case studies of successful innovation in the UK National Health Service are synthesised with those drawn from an extensive thematic interrogation of the literature, in order to develop the framework. The second phase is concerned with identifying whether or not innovations configure into discrete, identifiable types based on the multidimensional conceptualisation of innovation artefact, construed in terms of innovation attributes. The framework is operationalised in the form of a 56-item survey instrument, administered to a sample consisting of 310 different innovations. 196 returns were analysed using methods developed in biological systematics. From this analysis, a taxonomy consisting of three discrete types (type 1, type 2 and type 3 innovations) emerges. The taxonomy provides the basis for additional theoretical development. In phase III of the research, the utility of the taxonomy is explored in a qualitative investigation of the processes underpinning the development of exemplar cases of each of the three innovation types. This research presents an integrative approach to the study of innovation based on the attributes of the innovation itself, rather than its effects. Where the challenge is to manage multiple discrete data combinations along a number of dimensions, the configurational approach is especially relevant and can provide a richer understanding and description of the phenomenon of interest. Whilst none of the dimensions that comprise the proposed framework are new in themselves, what is original is the attempt to deal with them simultaneously in order that innovations may be classified according to differences in the way in which their attributes configure. This more sensitive classification of the artefact permits a clearer exploration of relationship issues between the innovation, its processes and outcomes.

We live in an age where our most significant 'story' is becoming that of a growing population living on a resource scarce planet. The need for us to do things differently is clear, increasing our awareness of the importance for social innovation around the world, yet the overriding narrative of our time remains embedded in a value system that maintains things just as they are. By looking at the stories we tell and the ways we tell them this study seeks to understand the role that 'narrative' plays in shaping our world, the power it has to influence an alternative reality, and its significance in creating conditions that are conducive for social innovation to occur. This paper gains a deeper understanding of the value systems in which our storytelling behaviour seems to be fundamentally entrenched by exploring the differences between how we understand and make sense of stories of commercial, as opposed to social, interest. In doing so, it has tried to gain insight into how we have successfully managed to sustain and fuel the growth of a global culture that rooted in an extrinsic value system, while we have failed to engender a sense of social responsibility, justice and equality. By conducting a series of participatory action research workshops across four different case study contexts, the research sought to challenge three core elements identified in the literature as occurring in narrative patterns: (1) narratives appear to be framed within either a negative or a positive framework; therefore, reflecting only a 'partial story', and perpetuating stereotypes or incomplete truths; (2) they are generally told by a single, external storyteller, with a very clear agenda; and (3) they are constructed to appeal to extrinsic values. The study set out to understand how we might unlock fixed narratives in the pursuit of social innovation - reconstructing new narratives that could in turn influence and perpetuate alternative realities. The workshop approach drew on influences from three practice-based methods: Theory U, human-centred design and elements of mindfulness practices. They were designed to prioritise story creation by multiple storytellers from inside the case study context, encourage the exploration of both negative and positive aspects of an experienced truth, and appeal to intrinsic values by creating the space for emergence and honesty. The workshops took place at a non-profit organisation, a private ii company, a public sector community health centre, and with an independent group of individuals from the same area. The core finding of this research was that by gaining a sense of 'agency' over their own capacity to identify, shape and share their own story, participants appeared able to identify and deconstruct 'fixed narratives' and move towards reconstructing a 'new, shared narrative' that was more inclusive of everyone's lived experience. A series of common factors appeared to play a consistently significant role in creating the conditions for this to take place. Some form of mindfulness, or body-based, practice was effective in encouraging participants to connect to 'experienced truths'. The use of different media to identify and create their stories increased participants' capacity to connect with their sense of control over shaping their own narrative, and the quality of listening within each group affected the quality of the story and the storyteller's own level of engagement. This appeared to lead to what is referred to in this paper as 'narrative agency'. The above factors also appeared to contribute to a common 'journey' or eight-stage experience. This consisted of fully entering the narrative workshop space (grounding), witnessing their authentic personal story (activating), articulating and sharing with a group honestly (connecting), embodying the emergent personal narrative (consolidating), gaining a sense of ownership and control over their own story (agency), integrating their own story with the experiences and stories of others allowing a new shared narrative to emerge (integrating), and demonstrating a desire to co-create a new narrative to inform new authentic actions (co-creating). This research demonstrated that it can be challenging to separate ourselves from the 'fixed stories' we have come to claim as our own and truly create the space and time to connect with our deepest needs, thoughts and desires. Consequently, we often have no real 'agency' over our stories. The study indicated that a deeper understanding of how to create conditions that generate a sense of 'narrative agency' could contribute to emerging practices in the field of social innovation, such as human-centred design and Theory U, and potentially inform new products, processes and systems.

Yes / Creativity and innovation in any organization are vital to its successful performance. The authors review the rapidly growing body of research in this area with particular attention to the period 2002 to 2013, inclusive. Conceiving of both creativity and innovation as being integral parts of essentially the same process, we propose a new, integrative definition. We note that research into creativity has typically examined the stage of idea generation, whereas innovation studies have commonly also included the latter phase of idea implementation. The authors discuss several seminal theories of creativity and innovation and then apply a comprehensive levels-of-analysis framework to review extant research into individual, team, organizational, and multilevel innovation. Key measurement characteristics of the reviewed studies are then noted. In conclusion, we propose a guiding framework for future research comprising 11 major themes and 60 specific questions for future studies. / Grant IN-2012-095 from the U.K. Leverhulme Trust awarded to the first author and by British Academy Grant SG110409 awarded to the second author.

<p>  This thesis aims at how to enhance innovation management in the companies. Collecting the data by surveys which we have sent to five Swedish companies. Through studying the theories and analyzing the data, then we got a new model about how to enhance innovation management.    Through the survey and literatures studies, we found that innovation was the most important for an enterprise; it is a power of enterprise survival and development. To enhance the innovation capability, enterprises must strengthen their innovation management.    How to enhance the innovation management effectively? With this purpose question, we have analyzed it through management idea innovation, technology innovation and culture innovation<strong>.</strong> Through the survey analysis and the theories study, there are 9 factors should be considered when the innovation management has launched .the company should know how to balance the dilemma of innovation, moreover, leader own the open views and offer a loose and free environment to the employees, then choosing a right partner and gain more support in form of fund and technology and so on. At last, we created a new model about enhancing innovation management. In conclusion, innovation management should be taken be an active state in organization operation with the management idea innovation, technology innovation and culture innovation.</p>

This thesis aims at how to enhance innovation management in the companies. Collecting the data by surveys which we have sent to five Swedish companies. Through studying the theories and analyzing the data, then we got a new model about how to enhance innovation management.    Through the survey and literatures studies, we found that innovation was the most important for an enterprise; it is a power of enterprise survival and development. To enhance the innovation capability, enterprises must strengthen their innovation management.    How to enhance the innovation management effectively? With this purpose question, we have analyzed it through management idea innovation, technology innovation and culture innovation. Through the survey analysis and the theories study, there are 9 factors should be considered when the innovation management has launched .the company should know how to balance the dilemma of innovation, moreover, leader own the open views and offer a loose and free environment to the employees, then choosing a right partner and gain more support in form of fund and technology and so on. At last, we created a new model about enhancing innovation management. In conclusion, innovation management should be taken be an active state in organization operation with the management idea innovation, technology innovation and culture innovation.

The purpose of this study is to analyze Volvo CE´s current innovation management strategy and compare it with the European Committee for Standardization´s (CENT/TS) standardized innovation management system. The study can be helpful for the organization to understand the gap between their current management system and the recommendations found in the CEN/TS innovation management system. A qualitative research methodology with a deductive approach combined with action research has been used to answer and fulfill the research question and purpose of this study. Our theoretical framework will introduce the five areas presented in CEN/TS IMS (2013) and describe their content more detailed with help from theoretical frameworks related to these areas. We will also consider other theorist's perspectives and compare their thoughts, description and models with what is been described in the CEN/TS regarding these five areas.Empiricism: Interviews with three of Volvo CE´s innovation coaches has been made to gain an understanding about the current status of the company´s innovation management strategies related to the requirements the five areas mentioned within CEN/TS IMS. In the Analysis section, a gap analysis has been made between Volvo CE´s current innovation management strategies and the requirements of the CEN/TS IMS for each area covered by this study. Overall, we think that Volvo CE have a good potential to develop a fully functional IMS in accordance with the requirements of CEN/TS 16555-1 into their organization with their current innovation management model as a starting point to build upon, and by following the references and recommendations provided by this study, the company has great chances in succeed with this mission

This thesis has explored the introduction of some environmental education and sustainable development (EESD) matters related to engineering, within an undergraduate engineering curriculum, in the setting of a Mexican university with a positive stance regarding best practice for sustainability. This study was conceived and developed on account of the position that the individual performing this research had in that setting, as part of the engineering faculty. The research design was developed considering the sparse literature available on this topic and the challenge involved in applying general educational techniques to an emerging field of knowledge that is subject to many contextual constraints. Accordingly, at the outset the research strategy focused on conducting a survey based on interviews in some Mexican and British higher education institutions, where EESD concerns were already being pioneered. The survey aimed to collect significant information that could be used later in a case study of action research on learning in the milieu where it was aspired to introduce some curricular changes. By means of a research strategy based on assumed collaboration from the different tiers of academic staff in the setting under consideration, a case study of action research on learning was implemented. The use of a model where the researcher performed the function of lecturer was widely applied at some stages during the action research process. In the course of the case study three elements of innovation were undertaken:the implementation of an innovative course for freshmen incorporating some EESD ideas, the carrying out of a voluntary 'in-service' staff development programme, and the attempts for conducting research on engineering-related environmental issues by some students. Relevant information was collected from these three elements, mainly through questionnaires and participant observation. The following points emerged from the study: The innovative course for freshmen bringing together EESD and engineering issues was put into practice and enhanced through a four-cycles-process of implementation, evaluation and change. This process enabled the involvement of a new faculty during the last cycle. This part of the innovation was secured and only requires regular upgrading as other curriculum courses. The implementation of the in-service staff development programme enabled the identification of some potential faculty-members interested in expanding EESD within other parts of the curriculum. This task however revealed some difficulties entailed in involving faculty in this type educational innovation. The attempts for conducting research on engineering-related EESD issues exposed the length of time and contextual constraints involved in implementing this educational technique notwithstanding its recognized value. Reflection of the outcomes suggests a steady but moderate progress in this area. The advancement of this educational venture calls for skills relating to, interest in, and commitment to EESD by faculty. It is suggested that the acquisition of these features by the academic staff, is a long-term undertaking and entails the contribution of various resources of diverse nature. The implementation and sustaining of an innovation of this kind depends not only on the institution's interest to initiate this type of education. Success in this venture relies significantly upon some contextual factors such as the support provided to the innovator, the status of the innovator within the academic community, and the competing interests in the milieu. Therefore, the EESD tasks implemented are vulnerable to quietly fade away in the day-to-day activities if they are not secured, and call for constant back up and upgrading. This thesis enabled the development of an understanding of the process of change within the setting where the innovation took place. It is suggested that prospects for this type of innovation to pervade through considerable parts of the curriculum are highly conditional upon the flexibility of the social structures prevailing in the institution and the insights gained from a continuing research process.

No description available.

No description available.