This article reports a multimethod study of product innovation processes in small manufacturing firms. Prior studies found that small firms do not deploy the formalized processes identified as best practice for the management of new product development (NPD)

Institutional theory emphasizes the institutional constraints that render radical innovations illegitimate, but fails to explain how such innovations might succeed. Adopting a micro-institutional perspective, this paper addresses why and how embedded agency may overcome legitimacy crises within established systems. Drawing on a sample of 20 legitimacy problems identified in five radical innovation trajectories at two mature companies, we develop an empirically grounded theory of the institutional work through which proponents legitimize radical innovations within established firms. This theory describes a variety of micro-institutional affordances that enable different strategic responses to legitimacy crises. We thus extend institutional theory by explaining embedded agents' use of a range of options to pursue radical innovation, providing a robust explanation of both institutional stability and radical change.

Entrepreneurial intentions are conceived as a link between the entrepreneur as an individual and the context within which a venture is created. A model of intentional action is presented. Five facets include: decisions which structure resources including time, vision and focus; flexibility of focus; flexible behavior; temporal agility; and interpersonal influence.

He previously was on the staff of Maastricht University and Tilburg University. Georges Romme obtained a master's degree in economics from Tilburg University. In 1992 he received a doctoral degree in business administration from Maastricht University. His current research addresses design methodology, innovation, technology entrepreneurship and organizational learning. Georges has published several books and a large number of articles in Strategic Management Journal, Organization Science, Organization Studies, Journal of Product Innovation Management and other journals. He serves on the editorial board of Organization Science and is a senior editor of Organization Studies.