Key influences of innovation magnitude and mode

Abstract

There is plenty of recognition of the need for more innovation in the construction sector. Increasing levels of competition, rapid technological and regulatory change, the current economic climate and environmental concern all accentuate this requirement. In response, many construction firms are seeking ways to manage innovation more actively and conscientiously in order to remain competitive. However, there is little practical guidance for construction professionals on how to make innovation flourish in their teams. Those who aspire to improve the management of innovation will need to understand how innovation happens, what are the driving forces and how can they be influenced. This paper reports on an empirical investigation that was undertaken to explore some of these questions, specifically the role of organisational climate, customers, risk and complexity on the levels of innovation in teams and the various modes of innovation that prevail – with the aim of providing practitioners with clearer guidance on where efforts should be focused. The findings suggest that there are a limited number of fundamental factors that significantly influence innovation magnitude and mode. For industry professionals it is hoped that this stimulates debate and assists in establishing a much needed foundation for improved innovation management in construction.