Apple has been named as one of the Top 10 Most Innovative Companies in a new report released by Cheskin, a consulting and research firm, and Fitch Worldwide a brand and design company. The 35-page report, “Fast, Focused & Fertile: the Innovation Evolution,” from the research companies is available for free online and can be downloaded from the Cheskin or Fitch:Worldwide Web sites.
The study surveyed over 500 senior business executives across the U.S. in a range of industry sectors, asking them in-depth questions on their companies’ innovation practices, including specific approaches, level of authority and leadership, spending trends, success metrics and the influence of major industry trends.
The study shows that, not surprisingly, tech companies out-innovate everyone. Somewhat surprisingly (as least to Mac users), Microsoft was cited most frequently as one of today’s most innovative companies, followed by Dell, then Apple. The only non-tech companies to make it on the Top 10 List are Wal-Mart and Daimler Chrysler.
“Creativity and design are driving the business value system and are fundamental for innovation,” said Kevin Roche, CEO of Fitch:Worldwide. “But the companies that are really winning at this game are integrating innovation practices throughout their organization, making it as solid and reliable as any other operation.”