Self-organising networks have become the dominant innovators of complex technologies and radical innovation. This book introduces the concept of 'innovation communities' and shows how successful 'champions' network on a case-by-case basis to get things done.

Innovation Communities: A New Concept for New Challenges.- Networks of Promotors as Success Factor for Radical Innovations: Theoretical Considerations and Empirical Findings.- The Evolution of Innovation Communities: Case Studies.- Managing Innovation Communities: Best Practice Reports Hands-on Methods for Developing Innovation Communities.- Future Perspectives: Innovation Networks beyond Traditional Management.

Self-organising networks have become the dominant innovators of complex technologies and radical innovation. The growing need for co-operation to ensure innovation success calls for a broader understanding of what makes innovation projects successful and requires new concepts. The book introduces the new concept of “innovation communities”, defining them as informal networks of like-minded individuals who act as innovation promotors or champions. These key figures come from various companies and organisations and will team up in a project-related fashion, jointly promoting a certain innovation, product or idea either on one or across different levels of an innovation system.The publication presents findings from surveys that demonstrate that networks of champions are a success factor in radical innovation. Five case studies of noteworthy innovation projects illustrate why the collaboration of champions can make innovation projects more successful. Furthermore, the book presents hands-on methods and includes best-practice cases and guidelines on how to develop innovation communities.This publication comprises empirical findings and practical experiences that are valuable for the following groups in particular: Entrepreneurs; Innovation, R&D, and network managers; Innovation and strategy consultants; Innovation and start-up intermediaries; Innovation researchers; Government officials and politicians responsible for R&D and innovation programmes and funding

The concept of "innovation communities" as networks of champions is completely new Findings from surveys proof that networks of champions are a success factor in radical innovation Case studies illustrate why the collaboration of champions makes innovation projects successful The book presents hands-on methods and includes tips on how to develop innovation communities Innovation managers can learn from best practice cases