Title: Rapid innovation practices in Chinese firms: a case study from the construction equipment industry

Authors: Lars Bengtsson; Per Hilletofth; Weihong Wang; David Eriksson

Addresses: Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, University of Gävle, SE-801 76, Gävle, Sweden ' Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, University of Gävle, SE-801 76, Gävle, Sweden ' Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, University of Gävle, SE-801 76, Gävle, Sweden ' Department of Engineering, University of Borås, SE-501 90, Borås, Sweden

Abstract: This study explores the innovation practices driving rapid new product development (NPD) in Chinese firms, focusing on two global companies in the construction equipment industry. Key practices identified include strategic investments in R&D, talent and patent management, mergers and acquisitions, and prioritisation of "good enough" product design with high customer service. The firms also emphasise shortened NPD phases, division of tasks, high engineer density, and parallel work using information platforms. Strong project management, quick decision-making by senior leaders, and a hardworking, flexible workforce further enhance speed. Viewed through an operations strategy lens, the study explains what Chinese firms prioritise, their management decisions, and the operational capabilities they develop. This case study provides empirical data that offers insights into the innovation agility of emerging economies and contributes to a broader understanding of strategic NPD for rapid innovation.

Keywords: rapid innovation practices; NPD; new product development; operations strategy; catch-up; China; construction equipment.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVCM.2026.153336

International Journal of Value Chain Management, 2026 Vol.15 No.3, pp.241 - 266

Received: 08 Oct 2024
Accepted: 03 Nov 2024
Published online: 01 May 2026 *

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