Innovation management tools
A report entitled "Innovation management tools: a review of selected methodologies" has been published by the European Innovation Monitoring System (EIMS). The report is the result of a study, commissioned by EIMS, on the tools and methodologies used by consultants and advisors working with small and medium-sized enterprises to assist them in managing innovation. The main focus was on innovation management tools (IMTs) used within the framework of the MINT (Managing the Introduction of New Technologies) action line of the former SPRINT programme, together with some methodologies of a similar type. A selection of such tools (17) was classified, the strengths and limitations of the tools assessed, principles of good practice in their use identified, and general conclusions drawn. The study also sought to set the use of these tools in the wider context of support for innovation in firms. The report and case studies produced as a result of the study should be of interest to consultants, business advisors, consultancy and business support organizations, managers in economic and development agencies, those concerned with the design and implementation of innovation support programmes, and SME managers themselves.