Implementing Workplace Innovation Across Europe: Why, How and What?

Abstract

Based on a 51-case study research in 10 EU Member States this article demonstrates the implementation of workplace innovation. Why do companies apply workplace innovation and what different strategies can be discerned? How do these companies implement workplace innovation interventions and who are involved in that process? Finally, what types of workplace innovation interventions are being implemented, and what is known about the (expected) effects. The article concludes that successful workplace innovation is interplay of management driven business goals and employee driven quality of work goals. The implication for both companies and policy makers is that constructive cooperation between management and employees is a key success factor for innovation, competitiveness and active jobs. We close by providing policy makers and practitioners with a few suggestions to improve the dissemination and implementation of workplace innovation respectively

Keywords

• workplace innovation
• implementation
• European Union
• European Company Survey