Instruction
2 pages for each question
The handouts and class discussions from Davila et al. and Clayton Christensen et al.s books review different types of innovation. While incremental innovations of P&G or 3M are the most common forms, there are other types of innovation with different management requirements and market results. The two questions below ask you to compare different types of innovation in firms and how to foster them.
1. Davila et al. (p. 57) consider disruptive innovations to be external effects on markets or competitive landscapes, which cant be managed directly but result from new technologies or linkages. They use the term ersatz radical innovation (55) with two semi-radical forms. However, Clayton Christensen and his colleagues have studied patterns of disruption in different markets, which challenges or threatens industry leaders with new dilemmas. Discuss Christensens theory of disruptive innovation in specific examples of industries (e.g. disk drives, automobiles) or institutions (education, health care). How does Clay Christensen suggest managers can manage or respond to potential disruptive innovation in their own markets?
2. Christensen collaborated with other professors (Dyer, Gregersen) and consultants (Scott Anthony) to identify and explain the leaders skills and behaviors as disruptive innovators. (There are power point notes and handout pages that summarize these innovator traits). The Innovators DNA book reported the results of their research and consulting studies. Briefly describe the 5 skills (or competencies) that can create an innovation advantage and financial premium in specific organizations, such as Apple Inc. How can managers put the innovators DNA and philosophy into practice in their own teams and organizations?
EXAMS SHOULD BE 2 PAGES FOR EACH QUESTION, DUE IN CLASS ON SEPTEMBER 14.