Component manufacturers' perceptions of managing innovation

The aim of this research is to understand component manufacturers' perception of their role in the innovation process. The role of the component manufacturer is different to other construction sector actors because they are product- not project-orientated. Base information was taken from part of a large benchmarking study conducted in Sweden. This helped to identify a small number of established component manufacturers located in a large geographical area of Sweden suitable for further investigation. Information about ten manufacturers was collected and interviews were conducted with their managing directors. The interviews revealed considerable variation in the manufacturers' perception of their position in the innovation process, their approach to new product development and interaction with their customers. Manufacturers were then graded according to their benchmarking and innovation procedures, which helped to illustrate a link between communication and information-sharing practices, benchmarking and innovation. The main findings are that the more innovative companies use information and benchmarking activities to their benefit. The more innovative companies have established a balance between innovations in process and product, have a clear direction from their managing director, and engage in regular communication with their customers.