Title: Proximity, mobility and aesthetics in strategies for innovation management

Authors: Udo-Ernst Haner, John Willy Bakke

Addresses: Institute for Human Factors and Technology Management, University of Stuttgart, Nobelstr. 12, D-70569 Stuttgart, Germany. ' Telenor Research & Development, N-1331 Fornebu, Norway

Abstract: Research in the area of work sciences clearly indicates that working environments and work organisation have an impact on the performance of knowledge workers and the ability of an organisation to cultivate creativity and innovation. To elucidate how environments can influence innovation, a case company is presented which has implemented a strategic plan for increased innovation by changing the way the corporate units work and cooperate, including issues such as collocation, changes in the physical layout of the corporate headquarters, and mobile working practices. The paper explores different mechanisms through which changes in the work environment may promote innovative activities.

Keywords: innovation management; knowledge sharing; creativity; collaboration; innovation environments; work environments; proximity; collocation; mobility; hybrid infrastructures; workplace design; aesthetics; work organisation; strategic planning.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEIM.2008.019051

International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management, 2008 Vol.8 No.2, pp.168 - 183

Published online: 27 Jun 2008 *

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