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Technological Innovation and Firm Inertia

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Organization and Strategy in the Evolution of the Enterprise

Abstract

More than ever, the long-term success of manufacturing as well as service firms hinges on effective response to technological change. Globalization, combined with a quicker pace of innovation, make timely technological adaptation a business imperative. Decisions about technological innovation occur at several levels within the firm. The highest level is that of strategic planning, notably investment in perceived ‘strategic assets’ (see Amit and Schoemaker, 1992). In addition, numerous tactical decisions can impact the firm’s technological base and advantage. Furthermore, successful innovation requires broad organizational learning, be it at the strategic level, in capital budgeting or when implementing new technology.

Financial support was kindly provided by the Fondazione Associazione di Storia sull’ Impresa (ASSI). Milan. Italy

We thank Alan Shapiro and David Teece for their helpful comments.

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Authors
  1. Paul J. H. Schoemaker
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  2. M. Laurentius Marais
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Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Universitá La Sapienza, Rome, Italy

    Giovanni Dosi (Professor of Applied Economics) (Professor of Applied Economics)

  2. Bocconi University, Milan, Italy

    Franco Malerba (Associate Professor of Industrial Economics) (Associate Professor of Industrial Economics)

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© 1996 Associazione di Storia e Studi sull’Impressa

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Schoemaker, P.J.H., Marais, M.L. (1996). Technological Innovation and Firm Inertia. In: Dosi, G., Malerba, F. (eds) Organization and Strategy in the Evolution of the Enterprise. Palgrave Macmillan, London. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-349-13389-5_8

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