Innovation Flow: Managing Innovation Scouting at Bayer CS

Bayer Crop Science AG (Bayer CS) was grappling with the critical issue of how to navigate the landscape of relevant technologies for innovation partnerships. The organization's structure was fragmented, with each business unit operating its own tech screening and sourcing processes. To tackle this, the Innovation Sourcing Team introduced InnovationFlow, a digital platform. This platform formed the core of Bayer CS' scouting network, enabling their employees’ efficient external scouting and idea leveraging. The case study centres on evaluating this platform and the emerging challenges during its rapid growth. It showcases the dynamic nature of digital ecosystem development, where technology, organizational change, and effective innovation sourcing intersect.