Exploring Skills and Competencies for Innovators

20 Pages Posted: 19 Oct 2015

See all articles by Alissa Harrison

Alissa Harrison

University of Maryland University College (UMUC)

Date Written: September 10, 2015

Abstract

Innovative and creative organizations build capacity by extending “thinking outside of the box” to literally “breaking the box.” In an effort to select the most qualified personnel, these firms often strive to bridge workforce gaps by redefining competency. Through a scoping review of workplace skills, this paper leverages innovation theory by considering Schumpeter’s (1939) economic framework and Prahalad and Hamel’s (1990) competencies associated with the firm. This paper explores empirical studies that inform workplace innovation to respond to the review question, “How do skills and competencies help build innovator capabilities within the organization?” Findings suggest a relationship between innovator competencies, such as cognitive style, technical knowledge, managing change, creativity, and innovation, innovative capabilities. Implications for management include opportunities to build innovation as a competency to address succession planning needs. Future research should focus on quantifying innovator competencies that position organizations to build a more strategic and innovative workforce.

Keywords: Cognitive style, technical knowledge, managing change, creativity, innovation competency

Suggested Citation

Harrison, Alissa, Exploring Skills and Competencies for Innovators (September 10, 2015). 5th International Conference on Engaged Management Scholarship: Baltimore, Maryland, September 10-13, 2015, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2676333 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.2676333

Alissa Harrison (Contact Author)

University of Maryland University College (UMUC) ( email )

3501 University Boulevard East
Adelphi, MD 20783
United States

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