The Formation of Connectivity for the Implementation of Crowd Innovation
Type
conference paper
Date Issued
2012-04-11
Author(s)
Abstract
Opening up the public sector for implementing crowd innovation is a demanding task for public managers: Since the concept implies broad and equal participation and the integration of external ideas, it often opposes prevalent organizational culture and thus represents also an organizational innovation. According to systems theory, organizations have to ensure connectivity between established and deviant communications in order to accomplish organizational innovation and maintain legitimacy.
This article explores the process of connectivity formation for the implementation of crowd innovation in a large Swiss municipality. Using an in-depth longitudinal case study, the article examines actions of the project management team and the development of decisions of a top management team during the implementation process. The findings indicate that connectivity evolves from (a) characterizing the innovation as positive and as the best solution compared to alternatives, (b) outlining the innovation as a reversible experiment, (c) linking new concepts and established ideas, as well as (d) creating objectivity based on repeating communications.
In conclusion, the authors emphasize the challenge of connectivity formation and the need for furthe research regarding organizational innovation in the public sector from a systemic perspective.
This article explores the process of connectivity formation for the implementation of crowd innovation in a large Swiss municipality. Using an in-depth longitudinal case study, the article examines actions of the project management team and the development of decisions of a top management team during the implementation process. The findings indicate that connectivity evolves from (a) characterizing the innovation as positive and as the best solution compared to alternatives, (b) outlining the innovation as a reversible experiment, (c) linking new concepts and established ideas, as well as (d) creating objectivity based on repeating communications.
In conclusion, the authors emphasize the challenge of connectivity formation and the need for furthe research regarding organizational innovation in the public sector from a systemic perspective.
Language
English
Keywords
organizational innovation
systems theory
crowd innovation
HSG Classification
contribution to scientific community
Refereed
Yes
Book title
Contradictions in Public Management: Managing in volatile times
Publisher
IRSPM
Start page
16
Event Title
Fifth International Symposium on Public Management (IRSPM XVI)
Event Location
Rome
Event Date
11.-13.04.2012
Subject(s)
Eprints ID
215785