A solution for a lack of breakthrough innovation – strategic C-suite direction and involvement

Purpose – The authors believe that too many large organizations mistakenly see innovation as a capability challenge that can be addressed through the development and allocation of resources when the real problem is a lack of strategic direction and alignment resulting from insufficient involvement of C-Suite leaders. This paper aims to address this issue. Design/methodology/approach – First the authors explain the downside of seeing innovation primarily as a resources challenge. They trace the growth of functionalization, which they warn can make the innovation process capable of only incremental achievements. Then they show how to promote C-suite participation in the innovation process. Findings – Leading innovation performers understand that there are two critical “responsibilities” that only C-suite executives can accomplish: enabling cross-boundary cooperation; and granting the permissions needed to pursue longer-term or other higher risk opportunities. Originality/value – The authors explain how successful companies foster C-suite participation in breakthrough innovation by a variety of approaches, including: conducting regular C-level portfolio reviews; identifying strategic focus areas for innovation exploration; using active C-level sponsorship of larger innovation opportunities; and creating separate incubators for developing breakthrough opportunities.