ABSTRACT

Customers are increasingly seeking "low-cost, high-quality" or what is known as frugal products that meet the buyer’s needs while reducing the associated cost of ownership. This book examines the developing principles and theories of frugal innovations across the globe. The authors identify frugal innovation (FI) using a multi-method approach to data analysis. They argue that the concept of frugality as a societal/ethical value has undergone several changes and propose a differentiated model of frugal innovations. They address frugal innovations that have never been accessible to the public.

Hands-on case studies across various industry sectors and countries, supported by theory, provide multiple learning opportunities. The authors explore the relationship between FI and digitalisation and technology, and discuss how FI can be applied in the context of contemporary issues such as food security. Further, they articulate the mechanisms by which FI beliefs and values can be incorporated into organisational culture. The final chapters address both ethical and controversial views of frugal innovation.

The book is a valuable resource for students in business courses, for industry professionals wanting to improve their triple bottom line, and for educators wanting to influence and change the mindsets of the younger generations to effectively deal with today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.

part I|1 pages

Conceptual framework of frugal innovation

chapter 2|14 pages

The Frugality 4.0 paradigm

Why frugal innovations are transcending beyond emerging economies

chapter 3|14 pages

How society perceives frugal innovation

Insights from a content analysis of German-language publications

part II|1 pages

Frugal innovation in application contexts

chapter 4|18 pages

From benchtop to bedroom

How frugal innovation practices can drive innovation within the condom industry

chapter 5|19 pages

Frugal innovation and digitalisation

A platform ecosystem perspective

chapter 6|13 pages

What drives frugal innovation in an economically developed economy?

Results of a qualitative study in Germany

part IV|1 pages

Frugal innovation

chapter 11|17 pages

Doing more with less in a financially restrained market

Motives, processes, and outcomes

chapter 12|16 pages

Linking frugal innovation and sustainable development

Leveraging corporate accountability mechanisms

part V|1 pages

Innovation cultures

chapter 13|13 pages

Frugal innovation

Organisational climate and culture

part VII|1 pages

Frugal innovation, ethics, and sustainability