Entrepreneurship and innovation process in the health industry in Taiwan

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the development of body fitness equipment in Taiwan from the viewpoint of innovation and the factor of success for innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

The research methods include a literature study and a case study. In addition, the innovation activity of an enterprise is based on the viewpoint of procedure (input‐process‐output). The innovation activity of an enterprise is separated into three phases: innovation motivation, innovation process, and innovation performance.

Findings

The enterprise's competitive advantage and efficiency can clearly be seen, and the reason for the enterprise's success can easily be identified through a structural analysis of the innovation process. The research results indicate four factors for the success of Johnson: mastering technology, good management, employment of diversified talents, and clear brand positioning.

Research limitations/implications

The innovation research model provides a comprehensive summary of the innovation process, stressing innovation activity. The study of the factors of success does not establish quantified or non‐quantified innovation indicators.

Practical implications

The factor of success of innovation is not exactly the same for every company. Sorting and analyzing the individual cases can serve as a basis of reference and act as a guidepost for other companies in similar industries during their business development.

Originality/value

The analysis model of innovation activity can clearly explore the development process of the innovation success of an enterprise. Simultaneously, this research can serve as a role model for other companies when they innovate.

Citation

Jian Chung Yuan, B., Yi Liu, C., Ming Kao, K. and Che Hsu, Y. (2009), "Entrepreneurship and innovation process in the health industry in Taiwan", European Business Review, Vol. 21 No. 5, pp. 453-471. https://doi.org/10.1108/09555340910986673