Integration mechanisms for different types of innovation: case study in innovative companies

• Main Authors: José Carlos de Toledo, Dário Henrique Alliprandini
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Fundação Escola de Comércio Álvares Penteado 2019-11-01
• Series: Revista Brasileira de Gestão De Negócios
• Subjects: Innovation management; Product innovation; Process innovation; Integration Mechanisms
• Online Access: https://rbgn.fecap.br/RBGN/article/view/3958/pdf

Purpose – This paper examines the use of integration mechanisms in two innovation activities relationships: between exploitation product innovation and exploration product innovation, and between exploitation process innovation and exploration product innovation. It also identifies the benefits generated by the use of integration mechanisms. Design/methodology/approach – A multiple case study in four companies from different sectors which are a reference in product and process innovation. Findings – There is integration in the innovation activities relationships studied. The most used integration mechanisms in both relationships are regular collaboration, involvement for knowledge exchange (crossfunctional interface mechanisms), those related to a culture of freedom, such as the free flow and encouragement of ideas, and those related to knowledge and information exchange (connectedness mechanisms). Originality/value – In addition to identifying that integration is possible and occurs in companies, it was possible to verify that the use of integration mechanisms enables the generation of benefits for product innovation.