ISO 56002:2019 – Innovation Management System
Table of Contents
What is ISO 56002:2019?
ISO 56002:2019 is an internationally recognized guideline for establishing and maintaining an Innovation Management System (IMS). It provides a structured approach to embedding innovation into an organization’s culture, systems, and operations—turning ideas into value.
This standard shifts the focus from traditional efficiency models to fostering creativity, adaptability, and continuous transformation.
Why Innovation Management is Essential
Staying Ahead in a Fast-Changing World
In a rapidly evolving global economy, innovation is key to maintaining relevance, competitiveness, and resilience. Organizations that effectively manage innovation are better equipped to seize opportunities and respond to change.
Key Benefits of Innovation Management
- Shorten product development cycles
- Enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty
- Increase operational flexibility
- Improve long-term profitability and sustainability
- Attract talent and boost employee engagement
Who Can Use ISO 56002?
ISO 56002 offers a flexible framework that can be tailored to fit any organization, including:
- Startups and SMEs
- Large corporations and multinationals
- Government bodies
- Academic institutions
- Nonprofits and NGOs
No matter your size or sector, ISO 56002 can help you innovate with clarity and purpose.
What Types of Innovation Does ISO 56002 Support?
- Product and service innovation
- Operational and process innovation
- Strategic and business model innovation
- Environmental and social innovation
- Technological and digital innovation
Core Principles of ISO 56002
Driving Real Impact
Innovation must deliver tangible benefits—whether through enhanced customer experiences, improved performance, or sustainable growth.
Leadership That Inspires Change
Executive leadership plays a key role in defining the innovation vision, supporting initiatives, and cultivating a workplace culture that embraces experimentation.
Strategic Alignment
Innovation activities should align with the organization’s mission, vision, and long-term objectives.
Culture of Collaboration
ISO 56002 encourages teamwork, open communication, and the integration of diverse perspectives to strengthen innovation outcomes.
Navigating Uncertainty with Confidence
By addressing risks early and establishing structured processes, ISO 56002 helps organizations handle uncertainty effectively.
Structure and Compatibility
ISO 56002 follows the Annex SL structure, enabling smooth integration with other management system standards like:
- ISO 9001 (Quality Management)
- ISO 14001 (Environmental Management)
- ISO 27001 (Information Security)
This unified framework promotes consistency across your business operations.
Key Elements of an Innovation Management System
1. Understanding the Organization’s Context
Analyze internal and external factors, including stakeholder needs and innovation drivers.
2. Leadership and Commitment
Top management should establish innovation policies, define responsibilities, and lead by example.
3. Strategic Planning
Set innovation objectives, assess risks and opportunities, and develop structured plans.
4. Support and Resources
Provide adequate tools, training, financial support, and communication systems to drive innovation.
5. Operational Innovation Processes
Develop structured systems to collect, evaluate, pilot, and scale innovative ideas.
6. Performance Evaluation
Use KPIs and metrics to assess innovation progress and make informed decisions.
7. Continuous Improvement
Incorporate regular feedback, learning loops, and iterative development to sustain innovation momentum.
Implementing ISO 56002: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Perform a Gap Assessment
Evaluate current innovation practices and compare them with ISO 56002 guidelines.
2. Define Your Innovation Strategy
Align your innovation efforts with strategic business goals.
3. Establish Innovation Processes
Document clear procedures for ideation, evaluation, and execution.
4. Train and Engage Your Teams
Educate and motivate employees to contribute ideas and participate actively.
5. Monitor, Measure, and Improve
Track performance, gather feedback, and refine your innovation system continuously.
Tools to Support Innovation
- Innovation management platforms (e.g., Viima, IdeaScale, HYPE)
- Cross-functional ideation workshops
- Design thinking and innovation sprints
- Performance dashboards and feedback tools
ISO 56002 is Not a Certification – But It’s Still a Game Changer
While ISO 56002:2019 is not certifiable, it provides a structured roadmap to institutionalize innovation across your organization. Adopting its principles enhances credibility, sharpens strategic direction, and accelerates idea-to-impact transformation.
Integration with Other ISO Standards
ISO 56002 works in synergy with:
- ISO 9001 – Quality and process excellence
- ISO 14001 – Environmental responsibility
- ISO 27001 – Secure and responsible innovation
This integrated approach supports balanced growth, risk management, and innovation excellence.
Challenges and How to Overcome Them
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Resistance to Change | Start with quick wins and executive sponsorship |
| Lack of Direction | Create a clear, strategy-driven innovation roadmap |
| Limited Resources | Prioritize efforts and allocate time and budget wisely |
| Inconsistent Processes | Standardize your innovation workflows and assessments |
Real-World Examples
Manufacturing Company
A mid-sized manufacturer in Asia implemented ISO 56002 principles and increased innovation output by 50%, cutting time-to-market by 30%.
Public Sector Innovation
A government organization used ISO 56002 to establish a public innovation lab, boosting citizen engagement and service co-creation.
Future of Innovation Management
Embracing Emerging Technologies
Innovation is evolving with tools like AI, machine learning, and real-time collaboration platforms that enhance every stage of the innovation cycle.
Supporting Sustainability
Organizations can use ISO 56002 to drive sustainable innovation that addresses environmental, social, and economic challenges.
Final Thoughts
ISO 56002:2019 is more than a guideline—it’s a strategic enabler that helps organizations transform creativity into consistent, measurable value. Whether you’re launching new products, redefining services, or driving digital transformation, this standard provides the clarity and structure needed to lead innovation with purpose.
Build a scalable innovation system that grows with you — start with ISO 56002 today.