Innovation management system processes and leadership
Domain 3 tests leadership behavior and the operational processes that turn an innovation policy into controlled work. Clause 5 requires top management to demonstrate leadership and commitment, establish an innovation policy, and assign roles, responsibilities and authorities. Clause 8 requires operational planning and control of the processes needed to meet IMS requirements and implement planned actions.
Leadership and process rules
- Top management sets direction and ensures the policy is appropriate to purpose and provides a framework for innovation objectives.
- Responsibilities and authorities are assigned and communicated, but accountability for the IMS remains with top management.
- Operations are controlled through criteria, resources, controls and documented information, including innovation initiatives and processes.
- Processes should address opportunities, concepts, validation, development and deployment in a way proportionate to uncertainty.
Worked example
A manufacturer launches a 'chief innovation officer' role and an idea portal but has no policy, no objectives and no review of initiatives. An audit finds that leadership commitment is asserted rather than evidenced. The role assignment is useful, but it does not replace top management's policy, direction and review responsibilities. The reasoning: clause 5 requires demonstrated commitment and a policy framework, not only a new job title.
Traps that cost marks
Equating leadership with a slogan or an innovation lab. Delegating the IMS entirely to a coordinator and treating top management as absent. Running innovation as an uncontrolled brainstorm with no criteria, resources or records. Confusing innovation initiatives with routine projects that have no uncertainty or value aim.