Abstract—Idea management is identified as one of the most important organizational capabilities that would lead to better innovation outcomes. An idea management system (IMS) is a planned and controlled methodological procedure through which ideas flow from initiation and generation to execution and launch. This paper presents comprehensive guidelines on developing successful idea management systems. The guidelines were developed using action research methodology to develop an idea management system for an Egyptian industrial conglomerate. Results asserted that, besides developing the core functions of the IMS, several enabling organizational factors must also be reconsidered in order for the IMS to yield successful results. Most important core guidelines tackle idea generation techniques, idea submission process, idea evaluation criteria, technology portfolio mapping and project portfolio composition. For the enabling factors, guidelines tackle management support, IMS personnel selection, reward system characteristics, organizational awareness campaigns, IMS testing group, and required effeorts and dedication.

Index Terms—idea management, idea management system, innovation, Egypt

Cite: El Sherbiny Khaled and Abdel Aziz Hadia H., "Developing Idea Management Systems: Guidelines for Success," Journal of Advanced Management Science, Vol. 2, No. 4, pp. 279-286, December 2014. doi: 10.12720/joams.2.4.279-286