Innovation: the Key to Business Success (FutureLearn)

Learn how innovative ideas emerge and become reality
You will see that very few innovative ideas are new; the vast majority take something that is already working and improve it. This may be a product, service or process. Those who are closest to the business often have the most innovative ideas.

At the end of the course you will have a better understanding of:

• how to encourage and contribute to innovation in your business;
• how to turn ideas into reality (for the benefit of the business);
• the role of people in successful innovation.

Explore case studies from major high street retailer, Marks & Spencer
Using case studies from the University of Leeds and major high street retailer, Marks & Spencer, we connect theory and practice to demonstrate the importance of innovation in growing and sustaining a business.
You will explore a range of important innovations, including the introduction of chilled foods and the development of man-made fibres. You will look at how ideas emerge and develop, and their impact not only on the business, but on how we live our lives today.
Through the course you will see that innovation can take many forms and that innovation needs people and organisations with a willingness to embrace change, to wonder “‘what if’,” to challenge the status quo and most importantly to work together.
Successful innovations need both determined individuals and a collaborative approach. Join this course to start your journey of innovation.