For this reason, an attempt will be made here to contribute to a simple, clear and preferably unambiguous understanding of innovation. In addition, an attempt will be made to solve a dilemma that often arises in the application and discussion of innovation. This dilemma arises when the actors do not clearly distinguish the status quo of an innovation from its future potential, resulting in misunderstandings and wrong decisions. Therefore, it is of high importance for both science and business practice to develop a uniform understanding of innovation. This understanding is important in order to have a common idea of what is to be understood by innovation and what is not on the way to an innovation-oriented company. This then has far-reaching consequences for the design of organisation and processes in the company (cf. Hauschildt, 2007, pp. 6-7). Building on a clear definition of innovation, this work develops an instrument that is to be used both in practice and in teaching.

ISBN: 978-3-86856-028-2
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53174/UAS/WS/2022