Idea management and innovation programs: practices of large companies in the south region of Brazil

Abstract

This article investigates the characteristics of idea management programs and their effectiveness in producing innovation results. The survey comprised 41 large companies in the South region of Brazil. The results show that 70% of the companies have programs or systems in place to solicit, encourage, evaluate, implement, and reward new ideas. Structural equation modelling (SEM) using partial least squares (PLS) estimation indicates that, although structured idea management initiatives have a positive influence on innovation results, they should be supported by elements of company culture, behaviour, and processes to help promote learning, absorption, and knowledge sharing, and the consequent development of innovative activities.