ERIC Number: ED292504
Record Type: RIE
Publication Date: 1987-Dec-7
Pages: 34
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
The Costs of Innovation.
MacDougall, Peter R.; Friedlander, Jack H.
A study was conducted to explore the possible negative consequences that can occur when an innovation is introduced into an organization, with a focus on how the dynamics of an organization can affect, and be affected by, change. After a review of the literature on organizational change and innovation was completed, structured interviews were held with staff members from colleges known to have an innovative program in staff development, alternative delivery methods, computer uses in education, outreach to business, telecommunications, small business development, international education, or other areas. Costs were measured in terms of unanticipated direct expenditures, innovation unrelated to the mission or functions of the college, neglect of core institutional functions, effects on institutional harmony, staff burnout, influence on institutional reputation, and effects on leadership. Based on study findings, a checklist (included in the document) of questions related to these costs was developed to guide community college leaders in a quick review of the potential consequences of proceeding with an innovation. (EJV)
Publication Type: Information Analyses
Education Level: N/A
Audience: Administrators; Practitioners
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: Santa Barbara City Coll., CA.
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A