Improving Ideation Quality within Wärtsilä Energy´s Frontline Innovation Process
Austin, Albert (2025)
2025
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025052917950
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025052917950
Tiivistelmä
This thesis aimed to improve the quality of ideation within the frontline innovation process of Wärtsilä Energy, a global leader in sustainable energy solutions. The need for this development arose from the case company’s internal observations that employee-submitted ideas lacked strategic alignment and sufficient detail, which hindered their progression through the innovation pipeline. The objective of the thesis was to propose practical improvements to enhance ideation quality and support the company’s innovation goals.
The study was conducted using applied action research methodology. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, internal document analysis, and platform usage data from the company’s innovation management system. The theoretical framework focused on innovation management systems, ideation methods, employee engagement, and idea evaluation models. Key models included ISO 56002, the Stage-Gate model, and the Accelerated Radical Innovation (ARI) model.
The practical part of the thesis involved a current state analysis of the ideation process, followed by the co-creation of a proposal with internal stakeholders. The proposal included three key elements: structured ideation campaigns, dedicated Idea Coach roles, and a recognition system for idea contributors. These elements were refined through stakeholder validation interviews and aligned with the company’s strategic priorities.
The outcomes of the thesis provide the case company with a structured and scalable approach to improving ideation quality. The proposed improvements are expected to increase employee engagement, enhance the strategic relevance of submitted ideas, and strengthen the overall innovation culture. The final proposal has been requested for presentation to senior leadership to support implementation planning.
The study was conducted using applied action research methodology. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, internal document analysis, and platform usage data from the company’s innovation management system. The theoretical framework focused on innovation management systems, ideation methods, employee engagement, and idea evaluation models. Key models included ISO 56002, the Stage-Gate model, and the Accelerated Radical Innovation (ARI) model.
The practical part of the thesis involved a current state analysis of the ideation process, followed by the co-creation of a proposal with internal stakeholders. The proposal included three key elements: structured ideation campaigns, dedicated Idea Coach roles, and a recognition system for idea contributors. These elements were refined through stakeholder validation interviews and aligned with the company’s strategic priorities.
The outcomes of the thesis provide the case company with a structured and scalable approach to improving ideation quality. The proposed improvements are expected to increase employee engagement, enhance the strategic relevance of submitted ideas, and strengthen the overall innovation culture. The final proposal has been requested for presentation to senior leadership to support implementation planning.