The Dynamic and Multisource Nature of Support for Frontline-Led Innovation Teams

This 24-month inductive study examined the practices provided by a variety of supporters to six frontline-led innovation teams. Analyzing 86 interviews with 35 team members and 17 supporters, we propose a comprehensive, idealized framework of dynamic and multisource support. These practices offered critical aid as teams dealt with limited innovation experience, limited relationships, and limited contextual awareness. We categorized the practices we identified into six sets-Ensure Foundational Support, Transmit Knowledge and Skills, Nurture Teams and Teamwork, Cultivate Relationships with Decision-Makers, Scaffold Project Work, and Foster a Holistic View of Innovation Work-and discussed their benefits and boundaries of effectiveness. Our framework challenges the notion of "one-size-fits-all" support, emphasizing the value of adaptive support instead. We also highlight the critical role of coaches and identify significant roles unexpectedly played by the funder, insurer, student fellows, and research-observers that provided instruction, resources, and encouragement.