Semester

2 (2012/13)

Module organiser

Professor Frances Bowen 
f.bowen@qmul.ac.uk 

Description

Innovation is a process and it is the primary source of competitive advantage in knowledge-based economies. The management of innovation is inherently difficult and risky: most new technologies fail to be translated into products or services, and most new products and services are not commercial successes. In this integrative module we will explore the reasons why this is the case by exploring the innovation process in-depth. We will consider what might be done to improve the chances of 'success' and demonstrate that a behavioural approach rooted in the concept of managing knowledge, in and across organizations, is fundamental to managing innovation. This module will be of interest to any student with an interest in organisational behaviour and/ or organisational theory.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, you should: 

• have knowledge of the distinctive characteristics and challenges associated with managing knowledge  and innovation across a variety of contexts 
• recognise the major knowledge processes and how they are enabled or disabled in organizations 
• have knowledge of the characteristics and effective management of knowledge workers
• be able to critically evaluate a variety of strategies and practical approaches for managing knowledge and innovation
• be able to synthesize data from case studies, articles and books in order to  evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches to managing knowledge and innovation
• have developed sophisticated presentational skills

Key text

Newell, S., Robertson, M., Scarbrough, H. and Swan, J. (2009) Managing knowledge work and innovation (2nd Edition), Palgarve.

Assessment

60% Exam and 40% Coursework: Essay (3000 words)