Abstract

Innovation is not simply accepting a given problem or task and solving it in a methodical, reductionist manner. Rather, innovation is an information and knowledge-creative process that is realized through the generation and definition of the problem or task to be solved. Research on the innovation process in Japanese organizations has shown that these information and knowledge-creating characteristics are, to a large degree, a product of what can be termed "information redundancy." Information redundancy refers to a condition where various types of "excess" or "supplemental'' information are shared among a group in addition to the minimal amount of requisite information each individual, department, or organization holds as necessary to perform assigned, specialized functions.