Innovation Implementation

Following the development and planning phase, which sets the innovation vision, goals, and strategic roadmap, implementation translates these plans into real-world solutions through structured processes. This phase is essential for ensuring that innovation initiatives within the ENVRI community are executed effectively, remain aligned with strategic objectives, and respond to user and stakeholder needs.

Innovation Implementation involves selecting and applying appropriate development frameworks to guide project execution, from idea to launch, while managing complexity, compliance, and collaboration.

Implementation is the action phase that follows the strategic groundwork laid during development and planning. While the Innovation Charter and Roadmap define what to do and why, the implementation frameworks determine how to do it effectively and sustainably.


Component Purpose Relevant Tools Description Way When

Innovation Process

Provide a structured path for turning ideas into outcomes, ensuring alignment with strategic goals, transparency, and reduced implementation risk.

n/a

Offers a customizable framework depending on project type. Stage-Gate works well for phased R&D projects; Agile for dynamic, iterative work; Wagile for controlled flexibility; Design Thinking for user-centered innovation. These processes help teams make informed go/no-go decisions, reduce risk, and adapt to feedback.

Select a process aligned with project goals, complexity, and stakeholder needs.

At project initiation and throughout execution

Stage-Gate Model

Support structured progress through clear development phases with decision points.

Stage-Gate Templates

Projects advance through gates (ideation → concept → development → testing → launch), with decisions made at each gate based on pre-defined criteria. Useful for large-scale or capital-intensive R&D projects.

Define stages and gate criteria early; use reviews to steer or stop projects.

Early-stage to launch of mid-/high-complexity innovations

Agile Innovation

Enable rapid iteration, collaboration, and adaptability in response to feedback and evolving needs.

Agile Handbook

Agile uses sprints, stand-ups, and continuous delivery principles. Best for software and service innovation or when user input is critical. Encourages innovation through fast loops of build–test–learn.

Break down work into sprints; use retrospectives and feedback loops.

Continuous development or iterative projects

Wagile Model

Combine planning control of Waterfall with Agile’s responsiveness for balanced innovation execution.

Wagile- Hybrid Process

Integrates structured design and documentation (Waterfall) with Agile's flexibility. Useful for RIs managing compliance-heavy processes while remaining adaptable.

Use early planning followed by Agile-like implementation.

Mid-sized, cross-functional innovation projects

Design Thinking

Foster user-centered innovation by understanding needs and validating solutions through iterative prototyping.

Design Thinking Practical Guide

Empathize → Define → Ideate → Prototype → Test. Highly collaborative and effective for service design, policy tools, or new digital interfaces. Encourages creativity grounded in real-world needs.

Use for early exploration, problem framing, or human-centered design.

Beginning of ideation and development phases

Waterfall Model

Guide projects through linear, sequential phases with thorough documentation and control.

Waterfall Template

Each phase is completed before the next begins (research → development → testing → deployment). Ideal for projects with clear specifications, regulatory requirements, or minimal expected change.

Map each phase in advance; ensure clear handover between steps.

Projects with well-defined, fixed requirements

V-Model

Ensure rigorous verification and validation, particularly in regulated or mission-critical environments.

V-Model Framework

Extension of the Waterfall model with a mirrored testing phase for every development step. Frequently used in medical, environmental, or defense-related innovation where validation is key.

Align verification and validation tasks with each development phase.

Projects requiring compliance, safety, or validation

Innovation Process Control and Management

Governance plays a crucial role in turning innovation plans into successful actions by providing control and coordination. It keeps innovation efforts focused, ensures efficient use of resources, manages risks, and monitors progress against objectives. During planning, governance establishes clear responsibilities and approval workflows, enabling a structured and disciplined approach to innovation development and implementation.