Research on Idea Generation and Selection: Implications for Management of Technology

Abstract

Idea generation and selection are fundamental activities in innovation. Scholars in many disciplines have written about these activities, addressing diverse perspectives. In this paper, we synthesize the research findings most applicable to the management of technology. First, we present findings on the process of idea generation: the importance of problem recognition and the many decisions made in organizing the effort. Subsequently, we present findings about the process of idea selection, focusing on the different types of information that can be used in that decision. Third, we turn our attention to the organizational context in which both idea generation and selection occur: the corporate culture, use of incentives, organizational structure, and use of teams. Finally, we conclude, emphasizing that although idea generation and selection are as old as human decision making, changes in technology still affect these fundamental processes.