The Post-It note. Facebook’s “like” button. The Sony PlayStation. These products are all held up as legendary examples of the power of intrapreneurship — entrepreneurial creativity and innovation within large, established organizations. Since the term was coined in the 1980s, intrapreneurship has been sold to companies as a catch-all solution for fostering innovation. It’s been promoted to workers as a way to capture the creativity and excitement of entrepreneurship, but with more resources and less risk.
The Myth of the Intrapreneur
Companies need an innovation process, not just innovative people.
June 26, 2018
Summary.
For decades, companies have sought to foster innovation through the idea of “intrapreneurship” — that is, the notion that new ideas come from a few rebels within the company breaking free of corporate boundaries. But in fact, the author argues, that’s not how real innovation happens. Instead, organizations need a company-wide innovation management system, designed to proactively encourage innovation at all levels. While the myth of the intrapreneur is certainly alluring, relying on just a few talented individuals to come up with all your new ideas is just not an effective strategy for most organizations.
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New!
HBR Learning
Innovation and Creativity Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Innovation and Creativity. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Unlock your team's curiosity and willingness to take smart risks.