A demystification of innovation, the innovation process and the management
of innovation within and to small businesses.
The provision of a seamless support structure from the public sector agencies to support innovation in the small firms sector. This support must not be based on only measurable research and development expenditure and outputs but rather on quantifiable outputs such as improved management development capability, improved access to information, improved decision making processes, improved knowledge generation and procedures and increased empowerment within the firms. The basis of such a support structure to a company would be based on an initial innovation audit linked to the development of a development strategy for the company. The provision of a dedicated resource at local county level, actively promoted to small firms, providing access to current market information backed by supportedaccess to experienced sector specific professionals. The objective of this action would be to make available current market information to small businesses and to enable them to use this information to generate new knowledge. The development and implementation of a programme aimed at facilitating inter company alliances/relationships in which companies are assisted in identifying, developing, maintaining and where necessary ending relationships and alliances. The rationale and objective of each strategic relationship would be set by the firms involved and could be either long term or short term, depending on their objectives. The development of a practical innovation management programme to be rolled out on a national basis through County and City Enterprise Boards aimed at improving and developing the innovative capacity and management development capability of local firms and in particular the owner manager and his/her key staff. The implementation of an innovation graduate placement programme which would enable small local firms to hire technical graduates thus helping them overcome one of the key barriers in the innovation process. Innovation tempered with the ability to think and manage strategically, are the key factors that distinguish the innovative entrepreneurial firm from the small business venture (Beaver and Price, 2002). The capacity and capability of a firm to innovate can and does lead to substantial and profitable business development. Provided that these are the objectives of the firm and its stakeholders, small firms need to grasp the opportunities which innovation can offer. For the future development and sustainability of small firm it is essential that they are fully supported in doing so.