Integrating Creativity into Regional Entrepreneurial Practices: Perspectives for Innovation and Growth

DS 86: Proceedings of The Fourth International Conference on Design Creativity,Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA

Year: 2016
Editor: Julie Linsey, Maria Yang, and Yukari Nagai
Author: Laima, Gerlitz; Dr. Gunnar, Prause
Series: ICDC
ISBN: 978-1-904670-82-7

Abstract

Innovation is the key-driving factor for regional development and growth (Heidenrecih, 2005;
Cooke et al., 2004; Heyek, 2002; Foray, 2012). The grassroots research exhibits practical implications
how SMEs can integrate creativity into business processes through developing design management skills
and improve their capabilities, operational, strategic and innovation performance. The EU cross-border
project “Design EntrepreneurSHIP – Integration of Students, Graduates and SME’s in terms of Industrial
Design Management” within the South Baltic Cross-border Co-operation Programme 2007–2013 serves
as a case study for the present research purpose. By cross-linking interdisciplinary knowledge, skills,
experiences and resources, a trans-disciplinary space for transformative change in SMEs leading towards
more creative and innovative culture and performance of SMEs in targeted regions might emerge.
Innovative products, services and process evolve from pooling resources residing in all three fundamental
domains of entrepreneurial activities, i.e. design, technology and business.

Keywords: design, innovation, regional development, SMEs, entrepreneurship, design management concept