The innovation process is still the business process with the highest failure rate. During the last few decades a multitude of different approaches for supporting innovation have appeared on the scene. Perhaps each one of them has useful aspects that could help to improve innovation in any company. However, the lack of integration of those approaches causes confusion and makes it difficult and expensive to implement them. Although each of these methods has proved its effectiveness, implementing them as separated tools may become overwhelming, as the absence of integration increases enormously the learning curve and costs of implementation. Several of these methods are also supported with software tools that facilitate implementation, however, those software tools are also affected by the same or perhaps a worse shortage of integration. It is mandatory to develop a support for robust, rapid innovation cycles to accelerate innovation by reducing, and, possibly, eliminating uncertainties. This paper refers to the development of an integrated approach to innovation methods including design thinking, Kansei engineering, QFD/VOC, blue ocean strategy, technology surveillance, TRIZ, A3, functional analysis, value engineering, set-based concurrent engineering (SBCE) and design for manufacturing and assembly, as these methodologies have the highest potential for improving the effectiveness and likelihood of success of the innovation process while at the same time reducing risks and costs.
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