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Corporate Social Innovation as a Driver of Performance and Welfare. WWWforEurope Policy Paper No. 25

Author

Listed:
  • Susanna Ulinski

    (WIFO)

Abstract

Social innovation is booming as a political buzzword. However, the concept still lacks scientific analysis, a common epistemology and a clear-cut definition. This paper takes a step towards a better theoretical and conceptual understanding of corporate social innovation by detaching the concept from the government and NPO sector. It suggests defining social innovation by its social means and social ends. The term "social" not only refers to the non-material nature of innovation and its social process that modifies social practices, behaviour and relationships, but also relates to the achievement of socially desirable ends. The means and ends for corporate social innovation are further analysed in three case studies on car-sharing, fair trade and diversity management of a multi-ethnic workforce. The analysis also shows that for-profit companies not only play an important role in the advancement of social innovations, but also that social innovations constitute a business opportunity. Moreover, the characteristics of (corporate) social innovations offer our society and economy the dynamics to adapt to social challenges in a complex environment.

Suggested Citation

  • Susanna Ulinski, 2015. "Corporate Social Innovation as a Driver of Performance and Welfare. WWWforEurope Policy Paper No. 25," WIFO Studies, WIFO, number 58500.
    • Handle: RePEc:wfo:wstudy:58500
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    File URL: https://www.wifo.ac.at/wwa/pubid/58500
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Nazari, Mohsen, 2022. "The journey from Corporate Social Responsibility to Corporate Social Innovation: The Whys and the Hows," Technium Business and Management, Technium Science, vol. 2(2), pages 27-39.
    2. Karl Aiginger, 2016. "New Dynamics for Europe: Reaping the Benefits of Socio-ecological Transition – Part I: Synthesis. WWWforEurope Deliverable No. 11," WIFO Studies, WIFO, number 58791, March.

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