Idea management in R&D as a human information processing analog

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Green, Stephen G. | Bean, Alden S. | Snavely, B. Kay

Affiliations: University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio 45221, U.S.A.

Abstract: A framework for analyzing problems associated with managing idea flows within an R&D lab is proposed. The framework is developed around concepts drawn from the human information processing literature. From this perspective, four basic stages of idea flow are suggested: idea generation, idea capturing, idea retention, and idea retrieval. Important idea processing needs are identified within each stage and some implications for R&D management action are discussed. The framework is intended to be used as a heuristic for identifying aspects of idea flow in an R&D laboratory that may need greater management attention, understanding or involvement.

Keywords: Idea generation, idea flow, idea management, R&D management

DOI: 10.3233/HSM-1983-4205

Journal: Human Systems Management, vol. 4, no. 2, pp. 98-112, 1983