Towards a Classification Framework for Concepts of Innovation for and From Emerging Markets

Abstract

A closer look at innovation for and from emerging markets reveals that a variety of different terms and concepts related to this type of innovation exist. The objective of this conceptual work is to develop a theoretical classification framework based on a comprehensive literature overview that provides a starting point for structuring these different terms and concepts. After a first investigation and comprehensive search for the keywords “reverse,” “frugal,” “jugaad,” and “bottom of pyramid” in the Google Scholar database, 19 different texts were identified and classified for further analysis. As a result, 33 identified terms concerning innovation for and from emerging markets, various spellings and synonyms are presented. Finally, a theoretical-based classification framework is derived and the criteria “market orientation,” “determinants,” “nature,” “sophistication,” “sustainability,” “novelty,” and “innovator type” was proposed. This classification framework could be used for further research and teaching in innovation, responsible, and sustainable management disciplines.