Cambridge Judge Business School Discussions on Innovation

Professor Williamson believes that in 2009, for the first time, it will be the emerging economies who will be providing 100% of the world's economic growth. Their ability, in particular China's, to successfully unlock access to mass markets by providing affordable 'value for money' new technology, is a key driver of their growth. This cost innovation model, he explains, can offer the West invaluable lessons on how to survive the current global economic downturn.

Necessity, goes the adage, is the mother of invention. Alas, mere invention is not good enough these days. Far more important is converting inventions into innovations: namely, products and services that improve consumers' lives and firms' performance. Just ask Steve Jobs and all those who rush to buy every new fruit which falls from the Apple tree. How then can entrepreneurs and firms improve their ability to convert inventions into innovations? Professor Jaideep Prabhu gives his views.

IBM's Steve Street explains why the financial meltdown, which demonstrates the limitations of a purely financial model, will motivate a move towards multiple sources of value. Services are crucial for our economy, the crisis has shown this very clearly, therefore it makes sense to look more scientifically at this important part of our society. We are, Steve believe, on the cusp of a radical transformation in the way services are delivered.

From cranes to bulldozers the East is playing leap-frog with R&D and jumping over the Western economies.

Kola Karim, CEO of Shoreline, explains why being local is best.

Peter Hiscocks is enabling innovation in Abu Dhabi to help the rich Emiratis' strategic long term growth.

Navi Radjou discusses 'polycentric innovation' and explains why Western companies are going East.

Diverse teams within multinational companies thrive on innovation says Professor Lynda Gratton.