Allen T.J., Henn G.W. The Organization and Architecture of Innovation: Managing the Flow of Technology

Butterworth–Heinemann, Elsevier, 2007. — 147 p. — ISBN: 0750682361 9780750682361 9780750682367.This book explores the impact of organizational and spatial factors on communication and innovation. By explicitly focusing on the symbiosis between organization and architecture, the authors successfully fill an important gap in the management of innovation and technology literature. This book is an evident must for every professional involved in innovation management.Rooted in Tom Allen's classic research with R&D engineers and scientists, ithe book brings the subject right up to date in the context of the BMW Projekthaus, designed by the book's co-author Gunter Henn. This concise work is a 'must read' for all those concerned with enhancing the innovation and product development process in high-tech businesses.Organization and Architecture
The Process of Innovation
Types of Communication
The Evolution of Organizational Structure
The Trumpet Model of the Product Development Process and Physical Space
The Flow of Communication in Space
The Role Played by Physical Space
The Configuration of Physical Space May Hinder Interaction
The Steelcase Example
The Coming Example
Increasing Awareness
Centers of Gravity and Awareness
Influencing Centers of Gravity
Skoda Assembly Plant — Awareness of Quality
Technical University of Munich — Awareness of Learning
Two Management Tools Employed Together
The BMW Projekthaus in Munich
Reflecting Back