A demystification of innovation, the innovation process and the management

of innovation within and to small businesses.

The provision of a seamless support structure from the public sector agencies
to support innovation in the small firms sector. This support must not be based on
only measurable research and development expenditure and outputs but rather on
quantifiable outputs such as improved management development capability,
improved access to information, improved decision making processes, improved
knowledge generation and procedures and increased empowerment within the
firms. The basis of such a support structure to a company would be based on an
initial innovation audit linked to the development of a development strategy for the
company.
The provision of a dedicated resource at local county level, actively promoted
to small firms, providing access to current market information backed by supportedaccess to experienced sector specific professionals. The objective of this action
would be to make available current market information to small businesses and to
enable them to use this information to generate new knowledge.
The development and implementation of a programme aimed at facilitating
inter company alliances/relationships in which companies are assisted in identifying,
developing, maintaining and where necessary ending relationships and alliances.
The rationale and objective of each strategic relationship would be set by the firms
involved and could be either long term or short term, depending on their
objectives.
The development of a practical innovation management programme to be
rolled out on a national basis through County and City Enterprise Boards aimed at
improving and developing the innovative capacity and management development
capability of local firms and in particular the owner manager and his/her key staff.
The implementation of an innovation graduate placement programme which
would enable small local firms to hire technical graduates thus helping them
overcome one of the key barriers in the innovation process.
Innovation tempered with the ability to think and manage strategically, are the
key factors that distinguish the innovative entrepreneurial firm from the small
business venture (Beaver and Price, 2002). The capacity and capability of a firm to
innovate can and does lead to substantial and profitable business development.
Provided that these are the objectives of the firm and its stakeholders, small firms
need to grasp the opportunities which innovation can offer. For the future
development and sustainability of small firm it is essential that they are fully
supported in doing so.