ABSTRACT
This chapter relates European Trinity of "knowledge sources" to a standard lifecycle of innovation, in fact the one proposed by the Roland Berger strategic consultants who formed part of research group. Among the greatest of European innovations, though, is that of the "north-western" corporation, and thereby the institutionalization of enterprise, at least in this case in a business context. Knowledge-contingent innovation reflects personal and organizational visions and interpretations of the ideals of truth, goodness and beauty, also incorporating "northern" objectivity and "southern" subjectivity. All innovations can be roughly divided into three types: those seeking excellence through alternately aesthetic appeal, managerial innovations, or – most commonly recognized – scientific discovery or technological advancement. The cultural compass, moreover, can be related to subjective and objective spheres and phases of innovation. Time-contingent innovation reflects the current stage in the corporate lifecycle corresponding with the needs for creation, elaboration and orientation.
