Search practices for discontinuous innovation: scale development and construct validation

Abstract

Managing innovation and particularly searching for new ideas in a steady state environment is really different than in discontinuous conditions where traditional practices and routines may prove ineffective. This paper reviews and empirically explores the field of search strategies and practices for discontinuous innovation and, for the first time, tests the validity of a ‘discontinuous innovation (DI) search capacity’ construct. Based on a comprehensive literature review on the innovation search stage and on the evidence of more than 80 case studies reported by the Discontinuous Innovation Laboratory, a questionnaire was developed and submitted to a 500 high-tech firm sample. Four DI search dimensions were identified, each consisting of a bundle of interrelated yet distinct practices. We empirically tested the DI search capacity and measured it as a second-order construct by using the structural equation modelling.

Keywords:

• search for innovation
• scale development
• survey
• search practices

Notes on contributors

Davide Aloini is Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Engineering, University of Pisa. He received his BS and MS in Economic-Management Engineering at the University of Pisa and then his PhD in Management Engineering in 2008. His research interests include supply chain management, information management (ERP and e-procurement systems), risk management and innovation management. Other details can be found at http://www.dsea.unipi.it/Members/aloiniw

Antonella Martini is an Associate Professor of ‘Business Economics and Organisation’ at the Faculty of Engineering, University of Pisa. She graduated in Business Economics and obtained her PhD in Managerial Engineering in 2000. Involved in national and international research projects on innovation and knowledge management, she is a member of the international board of the CINet and author of more than 70 international publications. Her research interests refer to the role of ICT in innovation (Enterprise 2.0, social software, community management, co-creation) and ambidexterity.

John Bessant is Director of Research and the Chair in Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the University of Exeter Business School. He has advised a number of companies, various national governments and several international bodies – including the United Nations, the World Bank and the OECD. Three recent books summarise key aspects of his research for academics, practicing managers, and students: Managing Innovation, 4th edn (Wiley, 2009) with Joe Tidd, Innovation (Dorling Kindersley, 2009) and Creating Wealth with Knowledge, with Tim Venables (Edward Elgar, 2008). Other details can be found at http://business-school.exeter.ac.uk/about/whoswho

Bettina von Stamm is founder of the Innovation Leadership Forum, co-founder of the Discontinuous Innovation Lab, a frequent lecturer in advanced degree programmes around the world and a consultant to major corporations and public organisations. Her PhD from London Business School on complexity in new product development was followed by several publications and three books: The Innovation Wave: Meeting the Corporate Challenge (Wiley, 2002), Managing Innovation, Design and Creativity, 2nd edn (Wiley 2008), and The Future of Innovation, with Anna Trifilova (Gower, 2009). More information about the Innovation Leadership Forum and Dr van Stamm's activities can be found at http://www.innovationleadershipforum.org