Incubation policy and practice: building practitioner and professional capability
Journal of Small Business and Enterprise Development
ISSN: 1462-6004
Article publication date: 1 March 2005
Abstract
Purpose
The primary purpose of this article is to propose a conceptual base from which an appropriate management and leadership development framework for supporting capability building of professionals and practitioners across the UK incubation community can be built. Furthermore, it provides insights into how such a framework could be applied through an initiative developed in the East Midlands region of the UK.
Design/methodology/approach
A review of the research in this field is summarised as an empirical background to proposing a conceptual framework. The author explores the evolution of incubation and identifies specific models and processes of incubation, as reported elsewhere in the specialist literature. This framework is further explored within the context of its applicability as a tool for building management and leadership development capability.
Findings
The author recognises the lack of published research in this field, despite its importance for enhancing incubation performance outcomes. Three main framework components are drawn from this comprehensive review. Four different learner types are identified, and these form the basis of outline incubation management and leadership development programme options, with differentiated indicative syllabi.
Originality/value
This article reinforces the need for, and has demonstrated the importance of, enhancing human capital capability within professionals and practitioners in the incubation community. The conceptual framework presented in this paper provides a foundation from which learning and development programmes can be provided.
Keywords
Citation
Hannon, P.D. (2005), "Incubation policy and practice: building practitioner and professional capability", Journal of Small Business and Enterprise Development, Vol. 12 No. 1, pp. 57-75. https://doi.org/10.1108/14626000510579644
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2005, Emerald Group Publishing Limited