Innovation strategy
When a need for change is identified, the opportunity to innovate can prove beneficial. How can a coherent strategy be implemented that addresses the various facets of innovation, from information gathering to the creation of value propositions for developing new products/services tailored to the market?
Presentation of the program
Our short innovation strategy program alternates the study of successful and unsuccessful real-life innovation situations with the presentation of proven models that help companies organize and structure their innovation.
In this program, we will focus on the following models in particular:
- The Value Proposition Canvas (developed at HEC Lausanne), which enables us to explore customers' expectations (even unconscious ones), and generate and test relevant product or service ideas.
- The "Where to Play Model" (developed at EPFL), an ally in managerial discussions to select and act on the best ideas.
- The "Business Model Canvas" (developed at HEC Lausanne), which creates a business model based on the new product or service selected above.
To facilitate assimilation, all these models will be put into practice through examples from your own organizations in group workshops.
Learning objectives
- Identify customers, their core needs, pains and associated expectations, and generate relevant value propositions.
- Evaluate and select the best opportunities to explore, and define growth or downturn scenarios.
- Build and refine a coherent and effective business model around the selected ideas and validate it.
Target audience
- Executives and professionals wishing to hone their innovation skills from all business sectors.
- Executives and professionals seeking to identify a new strategic direction, penetrate a market or change their business.
- Managers and professionals wishing to develop strategies to support innovation within their organization.
About the program
This short program Innovation strategy was built for professionals seeking to learn about fundamental concepts and then practice them trough practical exercises. There is a strong emphasis on practical application supported by academic excellence, with the use of exercises and break-out groups, industry examples and guest speakers. The fundamental notions will be presented beforehand, then supplemented and illustrated by numerous practical exercises based on real cases .
This approach will allow the participants to deploy the concepts presented during the course as well as forging a strong analytical mindset to tackle future challenges they might face on .
our speakers
main program
Program's sessions
- full dates
- 1, 2 and 3 October 2026
- language
- French
- registration
- Before 27 August 2026
Related programs
Digital marketing
Data science & management
Project leadership
How do I build a real innovation strategy?
The program helps you organize your approach, from identifying needs to creating a coherent business model. You go beyond just generating ideas. You learn to analyze, prioritize, and turn them into concrete projects. This structure strengthens the alignment between innovation and your overall strategy.
How do I find ideas that truly meet customer expectations?
You work on analyzing needs, including those that are not always clearly expressed. Tools such as the Value Proposition Canvas help you connect expectations, pain points, and possible solutions. This approach reduces the risk of developing offerings that are disconnected from the market.
How do I choose between several innovative ideas?
The program gives you a framework for comparing and selecting the most relevant opportunities. You analyze their potential, strategic fit, and feasibility. This method facilitates management discussions and limits impulsive choices.
How do I turn an idea into a viable business model?
You learn to structure a business model around your chosen idea. The Business Model Canvas helps you clarify the value proposition, partners, and revenue streams. This formalization makes your project more robust and easier to communicate.
How do I prevent innovation from staying at the intention stage?
The program alternates between models and hands-on workshops. You apply the tools directly to your own organization. This concrete implementation encourages action and helps you truly own the concepts.
Is this useful if my company already innovates?
Yes. You step back from your current practices. You add more structure to your approach and clarify your decision-making criteria. This reflection strengthens the consistency and effectiveness of your innovation projects.
How do I integrate innovation into my overall strategy?
You connect each initiative to the vision and objectives of your organization. The program helps you avoid isolated or disconnected projects. Innovation becomes a strategic lever, not a side activity.
How quickly can I apply these tools in my own context?
The workshops are based on examples drawn from your own professional realities. You leave with concrete elements that have already been developed during the program. You can then refine and deploy your approach as soon as you return to your organization.
What are the terms and conditions applicable to this course ?
Contact us
The quality of the training and the professionalism of the instructors are reflective of HEC Lausanne.
- full dates
- 1, 2 and 3 October 2026
- language
- French
- registration
- Before 27 August 2026