Driving and Inhibiting Factors for Intrapreneurship - A study of Intrapreneurship Teams

Abstract

This paper studies driving and inhibiting factors of intrapreneurship with a specific focus of intrapreneurship teams. A 7-factor model of possible drivers and inhibitors is proposed and tested using in depth interviews and a quantitative team dynamic survey called SPGR. Also other characteristics of team based intrapreneurship are explored, such as how they are organized in their organization, what types of innovation typically created by such teams and their overall process of working. 12 individuals participated in the interviews while 30 intrapreneurs across 5 intrapreneur teams participated in the team survey. The study covered 6 different Norwegian companies in a variety of industries. The research finds relevance for all seven factors but uncovers that individuals is considered the most important driving factor by the intrapreneurs. Also, team dynamic, strategic focus and informal structures (culture) are considered very important factors. Some of these factors are both drivers and inhibitors of intrapreneurship. In addition, the research shows that intrapreneurship teams typically manage to create product innovation and most try to apply effectual thinking in their work. Finally, intrapreneurship initiatives should be multi purposed, and aim for learning and training in innovation work in addition to creating business opportunities.