Process model for a research-based innovation procurement
Sandell, Anne-Mari (2025)
2025
Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025112730518
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025112730518
Tiivistelmä
By introducing a novel process model for research-based innovation procurement, this thesis addresses the “European paradox” and contributes to solving wider societal and economic challenges. The model was designed to unlock academic research's commercial potential, particularly within agile piloting programmes like those run by Forum Virium Helsinki, arguing that current market-driven models often fail to unleash academic innovators' full potential.
The process model was developed based on a comprehensive analysis of the FinEst Mini-Piloting Programme (2021-2024) and personal experience gained from it. To understand the innovation domain and the agile piloting framework, the thesis utilised multiple qualitative research methods. A case study explored the FinEst Mini-Piloting Programme. Action research deepened context-specific understanding, while constructive research built the foundation for the novel procurement model. Moreover, the thesis establishes a solid knowledge base by examining central innovation concepts, the innovation ecosystem, and agile product development principles, alongside discussions on procurement models and human-centred design. Key findings indicate that while agile piloting programmes show promise for commercialisation of research-based innovations, tailored support mechanisms and systematic approaches are required. Hence, the thesis emphasises the importance of dynamic innovation ecosystems, a nuanced understanding of academia, innovation orchestrators, and a close collaboration between academia, businesses, and the public sector.
The proposed model (Four-Diamond Research-to-Market Model) seeks to bridge the gap between academic research and commercial rollout by introducing a four-phase process. These phases are: (1) Academic Discovery, (2) Collective Explication, (3) Agile Development, and (4) Commercial Delivery. The model was informed by recommendations derived from the FinEst Mini-Piloting Programme, emphasising both its successes and its shortcomings. The study concludes with future recommendations and a call to shift towards novel models supporting the catalysing of academic innovations.
The process model was developed based on a comprehensive analysis of the FinEst Mini-Piloting Programme (2021-2024) and personal experience gained from it. To understand the innovation domain and the agile piloting framework, the thesis utilised multiple qualitative research methods. A case study explored the FinEst Mini-Piloting Programme. Action research deepened context-specific understanding, while constructive research built the foundation for the novel procurement model. Moreover, the thesis establishes a solid knowledge base by examining central innovation concepts, the innovation ecosystem, and agile product development principles, alongside discussions on procurement models and human-centred design. Key findings indicate that while agile piloting programmes show promise for commercialisation of research-based innovations, tailored support mechanisms and systematic approaches are required. Hence, the thesis emphasises the importance of dynamic innovation ecosystems, a nuanced understanding of academia, innovation orchestrators, and a close collaboration between academia, businesses, and the public sector.
The proposed model (Four-Diamond Research-to-Market Model) seeks to bridge the gap between academic research and commercial rollout by introducing a four-phase process. These phases are: (1) Academic Discovery, (2) Collective Explication, (3) Agile Development, and (4) Commercial Delivery. The model was informed by recommendations derived from the FinEst Mini-Piloting Programme, emphasising both its successes and its shortcomings. The study concludes with future recommendations and a call to shift towards novel models supporting the catalysing of academic innovations.