The 'Edisons' behind radical innovations Online publication date: Sun, 18-May-2008
by Marit Beckeman
International Journal of Management Practice (IJMP), Vol. 3, No. 2, 2008
Abstract: This paper focuses on the special individuals, called 'Edisons', who contributed to the development and acceptance of two major radical innovations, frozen food and self-service, in Sweden after 1945. The 'Edisons' were passionate enthusiasts, making extraordinary efforts and doing more than their jobs, and they could also be contributing from outside the innovative organisations. At times people within organisations appear similar to champions, entrepreneurs, etc., as described in innovation literature, but 'Edisons' from outside have not been previously described. As few radical or really new food innovations are being successfully launched today, one lesson from the past could be to find ways to involve and motivate a wider circle of interested people early. This would help to 'humanise' technology and to develop consumer-focused 'information/marketing', which should be done at the very inception of new technology or products, if they can offer and publicise real benefits to the consumers.
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