Clampitt, Communicating for Managerial Effectiveness 5e
Instructor Resources: Testbank
1
Chapter 10: Cultivating the Innovative Spirit
Multiple Choice
1. The evaluation criteria, “Is the idea possible?” is the critical question to ask in what
stage?
a. idea generation
b. feasibility analysis
c. viability assessment
d. implementation
2. A recommended business policy to promote innovation is to
a. financially reward employees for their innovations
b. design workspaces to encourage informal problem sharing
c. create an environment that communicates that “failures” are not tolerated
d. all of the above
e. a and b
3. A ___ success occurs when the results are positive but the organization does not
learn from the experience.
a. Temporary
b. Enduring
c. Potential
d. None of the above
4. A highly structured organizational climate and authoritarian communication style
would pose an especially significant organizational barrier at what stage?
a. Idea generation
b. Feasibility analysis
c. Viability assessment
d. Implementation
5. Your author suggests that practicality is the evaluation criteria that should be used
for what stage in the innovation process?
a. idea generation
Clampitt, Communicating for Managerial Effectiveness 5e
Instructor Resources: Testbank
b. feasibility analysis
c. viability assessment
d. implementation
6. A _____ success occurs when the results of the innovation are disappointing but the
“failure” produces valuable knowledge.
a. quasi-success
b. potential success
c. partial failure
d. temporary success
True/False
7. Creativity and innovation are virtually synonymous.
8. The most financially successful innovations tend to be product focused.
9. Most organizational barriers occur at the idea generation stage.
10. The same evaluation criteria should be used at each stage in the innovation process.
11. The main problem with innovation in organizations is that there is usually a lack of
ideas generated.
12. Sir Winston Churchill was not only a great statesman, he was also known as the
father of the modern tank.
13. Most innovations spring from “little” ideas or minor modifications instead of from
revolutionary big ideas or paradigm shifts.
14. Addressing the issue of, “Does the idea produce a reasonable return on
investment?” or “Does the idea fit with organizational objectives” would be critical
questions to ask in the implementation stage.
15. For the most part, similar managerial skills are needed at each stage of the
innovation process.
Short Answer
16. What the major differences between idea scouts, idea connectors, and idea
champions?
17. Why does your author believe that the following statement is a myth: “Innovation is
risky”?
18. What are the primary stages of the innovation process? Explain each stage.
19. How do effective managers reject a novel idea? Provide an example.
20. List and explain 3 specific programs or policies that encourage innovation.