Managing Innovation and Change

People, Technology and Strategy

Managing Innovation and Change is the fascinating study of a cutting-edge automation project undertaken at Pirelli General. Written specifically for teaching/learning purposes, this engaging and illuminating book offers an ideal introduction to the processes and issues of managing organizational innovation and change. The story covers 10 years of highs and lows in a major initiative by Pirelli General--the creation and operation of an automated "factory of the future," using the most advanced computer-integrated manufacturing (CIM) systems possible, coupled with innovative human resource management of a "multiskilled" workforce. Carrying implications for the company's international competitive sector strategy, the development holds a worldwide strategic significance for Pirelli. Each chapter explores and illustrates a particular theme, introduced by concise overviews of the main theories, concepts, and debates in the relevant literature, and concludes with questions for discussion. Managing Innovation and Change provides superb material for undergraduate and MBA students of human resources management, organizational behavior, industrial relations, technology management and strategic management and those requiring an initial introduction to management studies.