Introductory description

This module aims to develop a greater understanding of how to foster an innovative work environment.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

Why innovation matters in contemporary economies and organizations
Understanding Innovation: Types and Perspectives
The Innovation Journey: Stages and Frameworks
Drivers and Barriers to Innovation Success
Innovation Search Strategies
Strategy and Innovation
Value capture and innovation diffusion
Harnessing External Knowledge for Innovation

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Appreciate the importance of innovation for individuals, organisations, the economy and society
• Demonstrate a broad understanding of the innovation process, its stages and explore the main models of innovation
• Demonstrate a deep understanding of the sources of innovation and the role of user innovation in new product and service development
• Demonstrate insight into business modelling and crowdfunding for innovation, and the different growth strategies used to make recommendations with regards to innovation diffusion
• Think critically about the innovation process, including the application of AI in real-world problem solving
• Demonstrate diagnostic, analytical and problem-solving skills, particularly in fast-paced, team-based (hackathon-style) environments

Indicative reading list

Reading lists can be found in Talis

Research element

Students conduct secondary and primary research to identify and justify a real unmet need, market gap, or emerging trend. They also conduct interviews with users/consumers. Students collect data (in the form of surveys, informal user testing, competitor benchmarks) to validate their assumptions about desirability, feasibility, or viability of innovation. And they integrate the findings into their crowdfunding campaign and/or video

Interdisciplinary

Innovation requires the integration of ideas and methods from multiple disciplines. This module supports interdisciplinary learning by encouraging students to combine insights from business, design, technology, and social sciences to develop and communicate their innovation

International

This module incorporates international dimensions in several ways. Students work in diverse, multicultural teams, reflecting the global nature of innovation practice and encouraging cross-cultural collaboration. The challenges addressed in the module—such as sustainability, digital transformation, and inclusion—are inherently international, and students are encouraged to consider how their solutions might scale across borders or adapt to different cultural and regulatory contexts. By simulating a global crowdfunding environment, the module also develops students’ ability to communicate innovative ideas to international audiences, preparing them for innovation in a globally connected world

Subject specific skills

Apply the fundamental concepts and analytical tools of innovation management to identify and evaluate opportunities for innovation
Research, develop, evaluate and clearly communicate a new product or service in an effective and compelling manner
Effectively search, gather and utilise information and knowledge, including external sources
Evaluate the main mechanisms to capture value from innovation

Transferable skills

Demonstrate written skills in business presentation and communication