Key Mechanisms for Employee-Driven Innovation in Governmental Client Organisations

Abstract

In order to ensure that knowledge and ideas are transformed into innovative contributions, a systematic approach is important. The aim of this research was to identify the specific mechanisms that are key to implementing an innovation process model when conducting employee-driven innovation in a governmental client organisation. The methodological approach was an exploratory case study of a governmental client organisation within the Danish construction industry. The units of analysis were groups of employees and managers within the case organisation. The primary mechanisms identified were the mechanisms of organisational trust, innovation safety, organisational practices, cultural settings and the recognition and rewards structure to motivate employees. The decision-making procedures should be transparent especially to the idea-owners and the employees involved, and the implementation and putting into practice should be prioritised phases in the innovation process.