| Abstract | Innovation is widely recognized as a key factor of competitivity and productivity of any economic activity. Construction remains to a certain extent a craft industry, which appears to defy the rationale of innovation and its impact of wealth. Innovation in construction has appeared to be not only driven by the 'improvement' rationale, but also stimulated by industry changes. The use of existing indicators for measuring innovation, particularly developed in the context of the manufacturing sector, has appeared limited in construction. The social component of innovation is the most important issue. Some large multi-national corporations have been able to advance innovation significantly, a few small 'smart' firms have gained international and high-profit market niches in other sectors. With regard to measures of innovation and changes, perhaps one of the main limitations is the focus on physical building or facility as 'final' product. The chapter also presents some closing thoughts on the key concepts discussed in the preceding chapters of this book. |
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