A State-Of-The-Art Analysis Of Innovation Models And Innovation Software Tools

This paper presents an analysis of existing innovation models and innovation software tools. An innovation model is a representation of the components and interactions that would foster the creation of novel solutions, systems or processes. Those models are mechanisms designed to help producing effective and efficient collaborations within organisations, or among large organisations (LO) and Small to Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs). However, although they have been often used by some LOs, their utilisation has been very limited in SMEs. This research addressed two research questions: First, investigate the components of current innovation models and their use in different organisations; and second, analyse the characteristics of innovation software tools and how they could be improved. This paper will contribute to the development of more efficient and enhanced models that can help addressing LOs' challenges and help creating new markets for SMEs by constant engagement with LOs. A qualitative analysis of 17 publications from a selection of 400 academic abstracts, and 10 innovation software tools available in the market, was carried out. Results show that innovation models have been designed to support innovation activities in sectors such as healthcare, public services, aerospace, education and businesses. The results also show that innovation software tools can provide a platform to capture, discuss, vote and rate new ideas from internal and external organisations' stakeholders. However, despite innovation models and software tools seem to be democratic mechanisms for the management of ideas crowd-sourcing, they lack a symbiotic environment that goes beyond a simple collection device, and provide improved innovation support. For example, better support to solve LOs' needs efficiently, better support in the management of the collaboration among multiple organisations and the management of organisation's knowledge, capabilities, human resources, intellectual property rights, financial resources, reputation, innovation costs and project risks. The review highlights the need to design and implement improved innovation models and software tools that empower innovation and efficient collaboration among organisations, which in turn would produce increased economic growth and jobs creation.