Developing Dimensions and Testing the Structure of R&D Team Innovation Climates

Abstract

This study aims to develop dimensions for assessing and testing the structure of innovation climates within Research and Development (R&D) teams. Innovation climate plays a crucial role in fostering creativity, collaboration, and risk-taking behaviors essential for successful innovation outcomes. Through a mixed-methods approach incorporating qualitative interviews, expert consultations, and quantitative surveys, this research proposes a comprehensive framework comprising multiple dimensions that capture the various aspects of R&D team innovation climates. These dimensions encompass factors such as leadership support, risk tolerance, idea sharing, resource availability, and team cohesion, among others. Subsequently, utilizing structural equation modeling (SEM) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), the study empirically tests the structure of the proposed innovation climate framework, examining the relationships between different dimensions and their impact on innovation performance within R&D teams. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the multidimensional nature of innovation climates and provide insights into how organizations can cultivate conducive environments for innovation within their R&D teams. By elucidating the structure and dynamics of innovation climates, this research offers practical implications for managers and leaders seeking to enhance innovation capabilities and outcomes in R&D settings.