Harnessing the power of innovation is the central theme of this issue. In today s fast-changing trade environment, innovation is a key to competitiveness. Innovation is what allows companies to survive and thrive. Especially for services exporters, innovation is what allows firms to reduce costs, increase quality and improve productivity, so that they protect and expand market share.
Innovation means more than just generating good ideas.
For innovation to be successful, it must benefit both customers and the firm, and it must be replicable and sustainable. All easier said than done. At its core, innovation is a change process, affecting both customers and the firm. Culture is one of the most important factors in this change process, especially where exporting is concerned. Cultures differ in their approaches to technology, risk, communications styles, degree of control and other elements that are necessary for innovations to take root.