Significant issues for the future of product innovation

In recognition of JPIM's second decade of publication, the Editor-in-Chief solicited a series of thoughtful contributions from members of the Editorial Board. Members were asked to reflect upon changes and opportunities that they see influencing our profession during the coming years. In this issue, Timothy Devinney asks why globalization has so far had so little impact on many companies' approaches to the management of product innovation. He wonders if innovation is an inherently local activity, or whether other explanations are at work. Among them, he singles out the way firms acquire and process information as an important influence on innovation practices. Too often, we examine markets on a national rather than on a cultural basis, and this limits and even distorts our ability to formulate appropriate strategies and to detect opportunities. Like earlier contributions, this short essay is designed to introduce new perspectives. It is not essential that you agree with the recommendations, but we hope that you are stimulated as you reflect on the included issues.