Innovation in low tech SMBs: evidence of a necessary constructivist approach

This survey demonstrates a necessary constructivist approach in SMB innovation management. Authors base their study on an anthropological type approach. More precisely, they analyse innovative project evolution within a firm panel of ten. They point out that various strategies are applied by top management during the project. They demonstrate the non-existence of a single ideal new product development process. Consequently the project manager's capacity to select and order the design activities influences success rates. As variability constitutes a major criterion in innovation modelization, it appears that success depends also on the ability of managers to identify and seize opportunities at any moment. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.