Managing innovation: When less is more

Journal/Book: Calif Manage Rev. 1997; 40: Grad Sch Business Admin, Berkeley, CA 94720. Univ Calif. 59.

Abstract: An analysis of many highly successful and ''visionary'' companies reveals the existence of corporate cultures Thai emphasize adherence to company goals and cohesiveness within the group. While such cultures fan improve effort, morale, and productivity they also tend to thwart innovation-limiting not only the expression of ''original'' ideas, but even their production Research in social psychology suggests that flexibility to changing circumstances and innovation is better served by a ''culture'' that not only tolerates, but welcomes dissent and minority views. Such dissent-even when wrong-stimulates better decision making and innovation. Thus, the proper harnessing of dissent may provide a mechanism for creating unity without uniformity and for igniting the ''spark'' of innovation.

Note: Article Nemeth CJ, Univ Calif Berkeley, Berkeley,CA 94720 USA

Keyword(s): MINORITY INFLUENCE; MAJORITY; DISSENT

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