How to create and sustain an open and radical innovation capability in the fuzzy front end: the case of Vodafone Group R&D Germany and selected ongoing radical innovation projects

Abstract

Research has increasingly addressed the question of which capabilities are required to manage Radical Innovation (RI), but so far, a common framework is missing. This paper develops an improved theoretical framework that enhances the existing literature and integrates the Open Innovation (OI) concept to support processes through accelerated learning, access to new capabilities and the creation of new markets. In a case study approach, we apply our framework to the German part of the Research and Development (R&D) unit of Vodafone Group R&D (VF Group R&D.DE). Analysing their RI capabilities in the fuzzy front end, we identified a new type of transdisciplinary exchange that integrates art and design in the RI process. Through cooperation with artists and designers, VF Group R&D.DE creates a transdisciplinary environment that influences the processes of idea creation and opportunity recognition, as well as the approaches to reduce uncertainties. In conclusion, management implications are derived from the theoretical findings.