Innovation at Nokia *

Abstract:

The case describes the organizational culture at Nokia and explains how it helped the company become one of the most innovative ones in the industry. The focus of the case is on innovation and how, by constantly upgrading and introducing new features Nokia became the market leader in the mobile phone market. The case discusses the factors which helped Nokia become the biggest player in the mobile phone market: the culture of the company, its human resource philosophy and the organization of its R&D.

Issues: » Factors which have contributed to the creation a unique culture focused on innovation and creativity in the company

Questions for Discussion:

1. Organizational culture has a profound influence on the success of an organization. What are the major components of Nokia's culture and what are their implications for the organization? Explain how the organizational culture at Nokia influenced its unique success
2. Examine the R&D culture at Nokia and comment on the contribution of an open culture to innovation.
3. Discuss how Nokia's culture supports self actualization in employees and the benefits that accrue to the company because of this.  
4. What are the pitfalls of an open culture? Discuss in the context of missed opportunities.

Key words:
Organizational culture, Nokia, industry, innovation, upgrading, market leader, mobile, phone, market, biggest player, culture, company, human resource philosophy, organization, R&D

*Note : This case is a simplified version of a longer case study, and is intended for learners for whom English is a foreign language. The longer version of this case study (HROB023) is available at: http://www.icmrindia.org/casestudies/catalogue/Human%20Resource%20and%20Organization%20Behavior/HROB023.htm