ISO 56001, the certifiable standard for innovation management systems, has now been published. This milestone represents over 15 years of collaborative efforts in international standardization. I have been fortunate to be involved in this project from the very beginning.
Why ISO 56001 Matters
My motivation to embark on this journey was threefold:
Addressing Immature Practices: Innovation management practices in most organizations were notably immature. There was often no consensus on what constitutes an innovation capability, and a lack of comprehensive knowledge for students and seasoned managers alike.
Practical Application of Insights: Despite substantial insights into how innovation activities function, this knowledge was not practically codified. Practitioners needed an integrated system of enabling factors to make innovation accessible and actionable.
Unlocking Potential: Systematic innovation management is the single most critical competence that can unlock potential across digital technology, sustainability, energy, and security.
What ISO 56001 Brings to the Table
ISO 56001 provides a foundational framework and a common language for innovation management. It outlines key factors necessary for success using a systems approach. The standard helps organizations:
Understand their innovation capabilities
Identify areas for improvement
Establish the core body of knowledge for professionals and students
Ultimately, ISO 56001 fosters the best conditions for enhancing innovation performance.
Key Priorities in Developing the Standard
Universality and Flexibility: The standard was designed to apply to all types of organizations and innovations—whether radical or incremental. Its adaptable, non-prescriptive framework allows customization to specific goals.
Cultural and Regional Alignment: Developing a unified framework across diverse national and regional cultures was a challenge. By focusing on common principles, such as the eight innovation management principles, the team ensured compatibility and universality.
Integration with Existing Systems: Compatibility with established management systems (e.g., quality or environmental) was achieved through the ISO harmonized structure. This feature sets ISO 56001 apart, enabling seamless integration into existing systems.
“Its [the standard’s] adaptable, non-prescriptive framework allows customization to specific goals.”
Challenges and Opportunities
Challenges:
Certification alone does not guarantee success; commitment to innovation is essential.
Auditors need a deep understanding of innovation, as it requires a different culture and mindset than quality control.
The standard must evolve to remain relevant and impactful.
“Certification alone does not guarantee success; commitment to innovation is essential.”
Opportunities:
Organizations can use ISO 56001 to identify and address innovation capability gaps.
The framework promotes engagement from top management, aligning innovation with organizational priorities.
A shared competence framework for innovation management professionals is underway, offering certification for innovation managers and consultants.
Policymakers and funding organizations can use the standard to drive societal change and support economic and social goals.
Looking Ahead
ISO 56001 is transforming the discipline of innovation management. However, this is only the beginning. Over the next few years, we will refine the standard based on feedback and lessons learned.
I am proud to be part of a growing community of professionals dedicated to advancing innovation management to make a meaningful impact. Together, we can ensure that organizations worldwide innovate effectively, responsibly, and sustainably.
