Information flows, management styles, and technological innovation

Recent changes in both government and corporate attitudes towards R&D budgets make effective R&D management more important than ever. This research provides a data base for improving R&D management through better understanding of the information flow and management style variables in the innovation process. The research reported concentrates on the initial “idea generation” stage of innovation. It has four main parts: (1) a background discussion of technological innovation emphasizing idea stimuli and behavioral characteristics of innovators; (2) a description of the types, sources and channels of stimulus information; (3) a discussion of the role and importance of R&D management discussion making styles; and (4) a new model for the “idea generation” stage which incorporates information flows and a variety of possible managerial and policy actions. Conclusions include recommendations to R&D managers about characteristics of research environments conducive to technological innovation. Leverage points at which individuals, organizations and government institutions can effect change in the innovative process are also provided.