Email the author EVALUATING FRAMEWORKS FOR INNOVATION CAPABILITY IN SMES: STRATEGIC AND SUSTAINABILITY IMPLICATIONS
Abstract
This study provides a literature-based synthesis of the established framework for measuring and guiding innovation capability in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) — including the Oslo Manual, the European Innovation Scoreboard, and SR 13547-4. Based on these references, we extract practical methods (such as innovation audit, open innovation, design thinking/TRIZ method, and leveraging public funding programs) and correlate them with sustainability objectives. A simplified benchmarking analysis using EIS 2024 places Romania at 0.34 of the EU average (EU = 1), with relatively strong digitization but a persistent deficit in terms of innovation outcomes and organizational innovation capability. We translate these quantitative and qualitative findings into prioritized and actionable recommendations for managers and policymakers.
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