

98: Managing Innovation -- Burns & Stalker (Part 1)
Feb 14, 2023
Pedro Monteiro, a speaker based in Copenhagen, dives into the fascinating world of innovation management. He discusses the insights from Tom Burns and G. M. Stalker's classic work, revealing why organizations struggle to turn ideas into products. The conversation touches on the complexities of power dynamics and common misunderstandings about bureaucratic structures. Monteiro highlights the shift toward collaborative innovation post-World War II, emphasizing the importance of adaptive management systems and effective communication for successful innovation.
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Innovation Disrupts Organizational Power
- Innovation introduces conflicts and power struggles within organizations that can hinder progress.
- Firms, industries, and nations often struggle with innovation due to disruptions in power structures and social fabric.
Innovation vs. Invention Distinction
- Innovation is distinct from invention; it requires planning and organizational adaptation.
- Complex technologies demand more coordinated efforts than the archetype of a lone inventor.
Post-War Innovation Shift
- Post-WWII, innovation shifted from government-driven to commercial markets.
- Organizations tried to adapt old management styles to new innovation demands but often failed.