2021 Fall Networks Conference

The 2021 Fall Networks Conference features a wide range of topics (chosen by IRI members) related to external technology, human resources management, information services/information technology, innovation leadership/new product development, intellectual assets management, and new business development.

The agenda includes a variety of virtual session formats, with an emphasis on interactive discussion. These topics are explored through peer presentations, case studies, guest speakers, facilitated roundtables, and deep-dive workshops.

What is the Networks Program?
The IRI Networks Program connects innovation professionals. There are six groups in all – called “Networks” – each focused on a different function of R&D:

What is a Networks Conference?
The Networks hold two conference per year, in fall and spring, exploring topics chosen by IRI members through a blend of peer presentations, interactive roundtables, guest speakers, and workshop. The primary focus of the event is to give attendees opportunities to discuss trends best practices, troubleshoot challenges, and share ideas with on another in candid, small-group environments.

What’s on the agenda?

Here are a few highlights from the agenda:

• Rethinking Innovation Investment: Five Tips for Making Your Customers More Valuable
  • Speaker: Michael Schrage (Visiting Fellow, MIT Initiative on the Digital Economy)

• The Hybrid Model-Matrix: Enhancing Stage-Gate with Design Thinking, Lean Startup, and Agile
  • Speakers: Nicolò Cocchi, Clio Dosi, and Matteo Vignoli (University of Bologna)

• Transitioning to a Circular Economy: A Case Study
  • Speaker: Steve Perri (Eastman Chemical Company)

• Establishing a Mentoring Program in your Organization
  • Speaker: Phillip Spencer (Entegris)

• The Stories We Tell: Understanding how InnovatorsSolicit, Share, Collect, and Circulate Innovation Stories
  • Speaker: Katie Trauth Taylor (Untold Content)

Additional presentations and roundtables include (listed by theme):

1. Hot Topics Roundtables – External Technology, Human Resources, Information Services/Information Technology, Innovation Leaders, Intellectual Assets Management, New Business
2. Sustainability
   • Sustainability and Supply Chain
   • Green Innovation and IP Management
3. Partnerships and Connecting with Customers Customers
   • Streamlining Partnership Development
   • “Virtual to Personal”: How to Reengage with Customers
   • Effective University Engagement
4. Organizational Strategy & Culture
   • Organizational Interdependence: Breaking Down Siloes in Your Team
   • Organizational Behavior Considerations for Hybrid Workforce
5. Collaboration and Open Innovation
   • Developing New Collaboration Models for Hybrid Teams
   • Best Practices for Creating Successful External Partnerships
6. Digital Transformation
   • Digital Models for Sustainability
   • Developing an Integrated Data Strategy
7. Innovation Leadership
   • Organizing Time for Innovation,
   • Improving R&D Response in a Future Crisis

Who attends this event?

The Networks Program is open to all employees of IRI member companies, as well as those who work for organizations eligible for membership. Attendees come from a wide range of corporations, startups, universities, and federal labs. The event is open to all career levels, though a majority of participants are Managers and Directors.

To learn more about the Networks Program, contact Mallory Smith.