David S. Bright, Ronald E. Fry, David L. Cooperrider
Case Western Reserve University
| Abstract: |
This paper establishes a conceptual framework for the phenomena of transformative innovation (TI) in business. TI occurs when business actions generate a positive, fundamental shift in the relationship of business to society or environment, such that business and society and or environment are improved or become more sustainable. Business organizations engage in TI when they embrace social, environmental, ethical, or similar initiatives as an integral part of their strategic missions. TI plays out in at least one of three ways: (1) it capitalizes on and extends mutually beneficial interdependencies of business and society or environment, (2) it invokes a deep shift in values, assumptions and behaviors, or (3) it increases the scope of enacted human strengths. The exploration of TI as a mechanism for change will demonstrate how business may contribute to improve the quality of life for people, society, and environment. |
| Author Note: |
This paper is an attempt to put in writing much of our conversational theorizing from the past four years. We would appreciate feedback on any of the following questions: 1. To what extent do our theoretical dimensions on Transformative Innovation match with your observation of business in society activity in business organization. 2. What more could we do to operationalize and ground our definitions of transformative innovation and mutual benefit? 3. Where could we begin to test these ideas? Do you have suggestions of an organization that would be worthy of study? Please comment on these or any other questions or observations you may have. |
| Citation: | Bright, D.S., Fry, Ronald E., Cooperrider, D.L. (2006). Transformative innovations for the mutual benefit of business society, and environment. BAWB Interactive Working Paper Series 1(1), pp. 17-31. http://worldbenefit.case.edu/research/paperseries/?p=21. |