Digital innovation strategy: A framework for diagnosing and improving digital product and service innovation

Abstract

Digital technology is increasingly important in achieving business goals, and its pervasive effects have resulted in the radical restructuring of entire industries. Consequently, managers’ extensive interest in handling digital innovation is not surprising. Recent research has illustrated how digital technologies give rise to a vast potential for product and service innovation that is difficult to control and predict. Therefore, firms need dynamic tools to support themselves in managing the new types of digital innovation processes that emerge. The nature of these processes forces firms to challenge prior assumptions about their product and service portfolio, their digital environment, and ways of organizing innovation work. In this article, we present a managerial framework that supports firms in this undertaking. The framework, geared at supporting ongoing improvements in digital innovation management, covers five key areas: user experience, value proposition, digital evolution scanning, skills, and improvisation. We also present a diagnostic tool that can be utilized as firms begin the process of implementing the framework. Finally, we conclude with our thoughts on the managerial implications of the framework when going forward in a rapidly changing digital innovation landscape.