The power of enthusiasm in collaborative innovation: a case study of the power of individual action in the establishment of a local medical centre in Norway

Abstract

The aim of this article is to address a much-neglected aspect of collaborative innovational analysis: the power of individual action in the conversion of innovative ideas to local practice. The theoretical framework for the empirical analysis comes from the existing literature on power, collaborative innovation, and public-sector entrepreneurs. On the basis of an in-depth single-case study, this article highlights how one enthusiastic person can acquire a power base that is strong enough to realize her innovational efforts. Overall, this article emphasizes that collaborative innovation can create opportunities for single individuals who have the will and the energy required to innovate. Moreover, it illustrates that the power of such enthusiastic individuals is an important driving force in innovational processes.