Rigorous analysis of the Innovation Lab concept based on the scientific literature and identification of the main managerial implications

Details

Supervisors

Gailly, Benoît

Faculty

Louvain School of Management

Degree label

Master [120] : ingénieur de gestion, à finalité spécialisée

Abstract

This thesis explores the concept of “Innovation Labs”, an innovative management approach that has recently gained popularity. The main objective is to determine whether these labs represent a genuine evolution in innovation practices or simply a rebranding of existing concepts. The research focuses on internal physical innovation labs and is structured in two parts: a literature review and field research based on interviews with organizations that have implemented these labs. The literature review, notably drawing on the work of Schiuma and Santarsiero (2023), defines the structural, functional, and managerial dimensions of Innovation Labs. The field results are compared with existing theories to identify key managerial implications and propose an updated definition of this concept. This thesis provides an in-depth analysis aimed at clarifying the role and impact of Innovation Labs in promoting organizations’ innovation capacity.